The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that the military aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, on Monday was an ATR-42 aircraft belonging to the service.

The aircraft was reportedly on a routine flight from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos when the incident occurred, prompting an immediate search-and-rescue operation.

The NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the operation was launched in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.

In a statement issued on Monday, Ejodame said, “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.”

He explained that the aircraft was travelling from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred, adding that rescue teams were working to locate and assist those on board.

“Search and Rescue operations, in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies, are currently ongoing,” the NAF said.

32 People Reportedly Onboard

The Air Force has not yet released details about casualties or confirmed the condition of those on board.

However, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, earlier said preliminary information indicated that 25 passengers and seven crew members were aboard the aircraft, bringing the reported total to 32 people.

Keyamo said air traffic controllers lost contact with the aircraft, identified by the tail number NGR 931, at about 9:13 a.m. while it was travelling from Benin to Lagos.

According to the minister, efforts to re-establish communication with the aircraft were unsuccessful.

He later confirmed that the aircraft had crashed near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, adding that the wreckage had been located and rescue operations were underway.

Rescue Operation Underway

The NAF said it remains focused on supporting the ongoing search-and-rescue mission and coordinating with relevant agencies.

The service urged the public to await verified information as emergency teams continue their efforts.

The Air Force said further details would be released as more information becomes available.