Igbokoda:The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) initiated a search and rescue operation following the crash of an ATR-42 aircraft in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Sunday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, stated that the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed. Search and rescue efforts are currently underway in collaboration with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, confirmed the incident, noting that the aircraft, with tail number NGR 931, lost contact with air traffic controllers at around 9:13 a.m. while en route from Benin to Lagos. Efforts to communicate with the aircraft via radio were unsuccessful.
Keyamo further mentioned that the aircraft crashed near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, where the wreckage has been located. Preliminary reports indicate there were 25 passengers and seven crew members aboard the aircraft.
While the Ministry of Aviation and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority do not regulate military aircraft, Keyamo assured that he has communicated with the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, and offered full cooperation in the ongoing search and rescue operations. Additional information regarding the incident will be provided as it becomes available.