The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that an ATR-42 aircraft involved in a crash in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State belonged to the service.

Daily Trust had reported how the aircraft crashed in the early hours of Monday, October 5, 2026, while on what the NAF described as a routine mission.

Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the incident in a statement.

Ejodame said the aircraft was flying from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred, adding that a search and rescue operation had been activated.

“The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has activated an immediate Search and Rescue operation following an ATR-42 aircraft accident in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on 5 October 2026,” the statement reads.

According to the statement, the aircraft was carrying out a routine mission when the incident occurred.

“The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred. Search and Rescue operations, in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies, are currently ongoing.”

The NAF said efforts were underway to locate and assist those who may have been affected by the crash.

“The NAF is committed to ensuring the success of the ongoing Search and Rescue efforts. Further details will be communicated in due course,” it added. (Daily Trust)

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