The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has expressed concern over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State, with about 32 people reportedly on board.
NCAA Director-General, Capt. Chris Najomo, expressed sympathy to NAF personnel, occupants of the aircraft, their families and others affected by the incident.
Najomo said military aviation operations fall outside the NCAA’s regulatory and operational mandate but stressed that the authority was ready to support the national response.
“Accordingly, the NCAA stands ready to provide such technical expertise and assistance as may be required to support the ongoing search and rescue operations,” Najomo said.
The authority said it was closely monitoring developments and would continue working with relevant government agencies under established national emergency response protocols.
Najomo said the NCAA remained hopeful of a positive outcome and the successful rescue of those involved.
“At this difficult time, the Authority stands in solidarity with the Nigeria Air Force and all those directly affected by this incident. We remain hopeful for a positive outcome and pray for the safety and successful rescue of all involved,” he said.
Chronicle NG reports that the NAF aircraft, identified as NGR931, crashed in a swampy area opposite the naval base in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area, in the early hours of Monday. The NAF said the aircraft was on a routine mission and was heading to Lagos from Benin, Edo State.
