NAF Sets Up 12-Member Board to Probe Fatal Ondo Plane Crash

Quick answer: The Nigerian Air Force has set up a 12-member board to investigate the 5 October crash of its aircraft in Ondo state, which killed 25 people on board. The board will establish the cause of the crash and assess the emergency response.

Key facts

• What: Military plane crash investigation
• Where: Ondo state, Nigeria
• Crash date: 5 October 2026
• Reported toll: 25 killed (crew and passengers)
• Development: 12-member investigation board set up, announced 13 October 2026
• Emergency number: 112 (Nigeria)

What happened

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has set up a 12-member board to investigate the October 5 crash of its aircraft in Ondo state. The Service announced the development in a statement on Tuesday, 13 October, saying the board would establish the cause of the crash.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, also directed sustained search and recovery operations. The statement was signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information at Headquarters NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.

The board comprises specialists in aviation operations, flight safety, piloting and air traffic control, among other fields. Representatives of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau are also part of the investigation.

The NAF said the investigation would cover operational, technical, environmental, human and organisational factors. Its work will involve the systematic examination, documentation and preservation of relevant evidence. The board will also assess the emergency response to the incident, including search and rescue and medical arrangements.

What the investigation will do

The board's findings are expected to inform evidence-based recommendations aimed at addressing the factors identified in the crash. The Air Force urged the public to avoid drawing conclusions about the cause of the crash before the investigation is complete, saying conclusions regarding the cause would be premature until the investigation is finished.

The NAF said search, recovery and investigative operations remained a priority.

Support for bereaved families

On support for the bereaved families, the NAF said it had established a direct helpline at its headquarters. Administrative arrangements have also been activated, including meetings with affected families.

What happens next

The board will complete its investigation and report its findings and recommendations. We will update this story as the board's findings are released.

Frequently asked questions

What did the Nigerian Air Force announce?

It announced a 12-member board to investigate the 5 October crash of its aircraft in Ondo state, which killed 25 people.

Who is on the investigation board?

The board comprises specialists in aviation operations, flight safety, piloting and air traffic control, among other fields, with representatives of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau also involved.

What will the investigation cover?

Operational, technical, environmental, human and organisational factors, plus an assessment of the emergency response, including search and rescue and medical arrangements.

When was the board announced?

On Tuesday, 13 October 2026, in a statement from Nigerian Air Force headquarters.

What has the Air Force said about the cause?

It urged the public to avoid drawing conclusions, saying conclusions regarding the cause of the accident would be premature until the investigation is complete.

What support is available for bereaved families?

The NAF said it had established a direct helpline at its headquarters, and that administrative arrangements, including meetings with affected families, had been activated.

Source: Channels Television — https://www.channelstv.com/2026/10/13/naf-sets-up-12-member-board-to-probe-fatal-air-crash-in-ondo/