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By Molly Kilete
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Monday said it has made tremendous progress in its ongoing operations at the crash site of the ill-fated ATR 42-500, in Igbokoda, Ondo State, as recovery efforts entered day 14 on Monday.
So far, the NAF, said that continuous pumping had substantially reduced the water level at the crash site, with the recovery team working to remove most of the remaining water, subject to prevailing conditions.
NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, who made this known, said efforts were also ongoing to reinforce the embankment with sandbags to prevent collapse and maintain stability during the dewatering process.
Ejodame, in a statement, said the operation requires sustained engineering and water-removal efforts under challenging conditions, reflecting the scale and complexity of the recovery mission.
The statement reads; “The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), has sustained intensive recovery operations at the site of the crashed ATR 42-500 aircraft, NAF 931, at Igbokoda, Ondo State, as operations entered Day Fourteen on 19 October 2026.
“Continuous pumping has significantly reduced the water level at the site, with the recovery team working towards removing most of the remaining water, subject to prevailing conditions. “Reinforcement of the embankment with sandbags is also ongoing to prevent collapse and maintain stability as dewatering continues.
“The operation requires sustained engineering and dewatering efforts under challenging conditions, underscoring the scale and complexity of the recovery mission. “The NAF commends the dedication of all recovery personnel and partner agencies, with special appreciation to Hitech Construction Company for its invaluable support to the ongoing operation.
“The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended the recovery team for its resilience and professionalism, reaffirming the NAF’s commitment to completing the operation safely and methodically while supporting the ongoing aircraft accident investigation.
“The NAF remains deeply conscious of the pain and anguish of the bereaved families and extends its heartfelt condolences to them. The Service remains committed to sustaining recovery efforts and providing timely, verified updates as the operation progresses. It also appreciates the patience and cooperation of the Igbokoda community and the continued support of all stakeholders”.
