6th October, 2026 | News

Military Aircraft Crashes Near Igbokoda in Ondo State, 32 People Onboard

A military aircraft carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members has crashed near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State, with search and rescue operations underway.

The aircraft, identified by tail number NGR 931, was travelling from Benin to Lagos when air traffic controllers lost contact with it at about 9:13 a.m. on Monday.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said all attempts to re-establish radio contact with the aircraft were unsuccessful.

The aircraft was subsequently confirmed to have crashed near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, where its wreckage was located.

32 People Onboard

Preliminary information indicated that 32 people were onboard, comprising 25 passengers and seven crew members.

Authorities have not yet released further details on the condition or whereabouts of those onboard as rescue operations continue.

Keyamo said emergency teams were working to locate and assist those affected by the crash.

Keyamo Speaks With Chief of Air Staff

The minister clarified that the regulation and control of military aircraft fall outside the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority.

Keyamo said he had spoken with the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, following the incident.

He assured the Nigerian Air Force of the ministry’s cooperation and assistance as search and rescue operations continue.

Rescue Operation Underway

The location of the aircraft wreckage has been established, while search and rescue teams remain engaged in the operation.

Authorities are expected to provide further information as more details emerge about the circumstances surrounding the crash and the condition of those onboard.

The incident has raised renewed attention on aviation safety and the challenges involved in responding to military aircraft emergencies.