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From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has said it has concluded arrangements to hold a memorial service and wreath-laying ceremony in honour of the victims of the ill-fated ATR 42-500 aircraft, NAF 931, at Igbokoda, Ondo State, on November 26.
The memorial service and wreath-laying ceremony, which will hold at the National Military Cemetery, Abuja, according to the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, will provide an opportunity for bereaved families, colleagues, friends and the wider NAF community to pay their last respects, honour the memories of the departed and recognise their service and sacrifice.
Ejodame, in a statement, said the wreath-laying would also serve as a formal expression of the service’s enduring respect and remembrance for those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident.
The NAF spokesman further stated that it had confirmed the recovery of the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), alongside other aircraft fragments and relevant evidence, from the crash site at Igbokoda, Ondo State. Data retrieved from the voice recorder is being analysed and is expected to contribute significantly to the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident of 5 October 2026.
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He said: “The investigation is progressing steadily in collaboration with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). The NAF remains committed to ensuring that the investigation is conducted in accordance with the highest standards of professionalism, transparency, accountability and responsibility, while supporting the independent technical processes required to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident. Recovery operations have so far yielded several human remains and aircraft fragments, with the identification process of the recovered remains currently ongoing.
“The operation has been particularly challenging due to the swampy nature of the terrain and the depth to which some aircraft wreckage penetrated the ground. The NAF also continues to engage with relevant agencies to address environmental concerns arising from the recovery process and ensure appropriate remediation upon its completion.
“The NAF recognises the profound grief experienced by the bereaved families and reiterates its commitment to providing them with sustained support throughout this difficult period. The Service also appreciates the cooperation of relevant agencies, host communities and other stakeholders who have continued to support the recovery and investigation efforts. The NAF assures the public of its commitment to a thorough investigation, responsible environmental management and the dignified remembrance of all those who lost their lives.”
