The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that all 25 people on board its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, died in the crash that occurred in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The aircraft, which was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos, had five crew members and 20 passengers on board when the accident occurred.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed deep condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the victims, describing the incident as a painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the country.
The NAF said search-and-rescue operations were activated immediately after the aircraft was reported to have encountered difficulties. The efforts were conducted in coordination with relevant authorities to locate the aircraft and account for everyone on board.
According to the Air Force, no survivor was found.
The five crew members were identified as Squadron Leader MI Aburime, the flight captain; Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje, co-pilot; Flight Lieutenant IS Bako, co-pilot; Warrant Officer Abubakar A, aircraft technician; and Corporal Uguru HC, aircraft technician.
The 20 passengers were identified as Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus; Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye; Flying Officer IM Adeshina; Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F; Master Warrant Officer Matini BA; Warrant Officer Nuhu FS; Flight Sergeant James RB; Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI; Sergeant Ani AE; Sergeant Izibenikien SI; Sergeant Alafuka C; Sergeant Mbadugha AN; Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC; Lance Corporal Eledan GE; Mrs Ezeh Nneka; Godstmine Tarabina; Joy Micheal; Sunday Micheal; Ukeme David; and Gideon Omotola.
The CAS has ordered a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The NAF urged members of the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information as investigations continue.
It also appealed for respect for the privacy and dignity of the families of those who died in the accident.
The Air Force said a condolence register has been opened at its headquarters in Abuja for senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects and convey messages of sympathy to the families of the deceased and the Nigerian Air Force.
The statement was signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, on October 6, 2026.