The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that an ATR-42 aircraft that crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Monday, October 5, 2026, belonged to the force.
The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos when the accident occurred, according to the NAF.
In a statement, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the NAF immediately activated a search-and-rescue operation following the crash.
“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,” Ejodame said.
He added that the operation was being conducted in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies. 
“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,” he said.
The NAF spokesperson said the force remained focused on the ongoing rescue efforts and would provide further information as it becomes available.
The circumstances surrounding the crash, including the condition of those on board, remained unclear as of the time of filing this report.
The Air Force did not disclose the number of passengers or crew members aboard the aircraft, nor did it confirm whether there were casualties.
Further details are expected as the search-and-rescue operation progresses.
