Ondo Jet Crash: President Tinubu Mourns NAF Personnel, Orders Thorough Investigation

ABUJA, Nigeria — President Bola Tinubu has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the tragic crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 jet in Ondo State on Monday morning.

The military aircraft, which was transiting on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos, crashed near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on October 5, 2026.

The flight was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members.

In a statehouse press statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed his profound sadness over the mishap, describing it as a devastating blow to the military and the country.

“This is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation,” President Tinubu said. “Our Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure Nigeria. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

Immediate Investigation and Rescue Operations

Following a briefing from the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the President directed the NAF to launch a comprehensive probe into the root cause of the accident to prevent future occurrences.

President Tinubu commended the Nigerian Air Force for its swift response in activating immediate search and rescue operations at the crash site. He also praised the first responders and the Ondo State Government for their rapid intervention.

Support for the Armed Forces

Extending his deepest condolences to the families of the victims, the Chief of the Air Staff, and the entire Air Force community, the President prayed for the repose of the souls of the personnel involved.

He reassured the military of his administration’s unwavering commitment to providing the necessary resources and backing required to safeguard Nigeria’s airspace and territorial integrity.

“I pray for Almighty God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the fortitude to bear the unfortunate loss,” the statement concluded. “I assure the Nigerian Air Force of the continued support of our administration as they continue their vital role in securing our nation.”