Abuja:The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has mandated enhanced flight safety oversight throughout the Nigerian Air Force after the crash of a NAF ATR 42-500 aircraft on October 5.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Air Marshal Aneke issued this directive during a meeting in Abuja with Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding, Principal Staff Officers, and other senior commanders. He emphasized the importance of personnel safety, upholding professional standards, and ensuring institutional accountability.
Aneke expressed deep sorrow over the loss of personnel and acknowledged the grief felt by the bereaved families and the entire NAF community. He highlighted that operational effectiveness depends on sound judgment, professional discipline, and the highest standards of flight safety. Commanders were instructed to maintain rigorous oversight of aircraft airworthiness, ensure quality assurance in maintenance, adhere to operational procedures, and uphold aircrew competence.
He also stressed the need for proactive safety monitoring, prompt reporting of potential hazards, and effective implementation of safety measures, asserting that flight safety is a shared command responsibility. Aneke noted that significant resources have been allocated for personnel training, aircraft spares, and maintenance to support airworthiness and operational readiness.