NAF Recovers More Wreckage From Crashed Aircraft In Ondo

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recovered additional components of its ATR 42-500 aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, as search and recovery operations continue at the site.

The Air Force disclosed this on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, in a statement published on its official X account, noting that a multi-agency team was working to retrieve materials needed for the ongoing investigation into the crash.

According to the NAF, specialist divers from the Nigerian Navy and personnel from the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau are working alongside its recovery team to search underwater and retrieve aircraft wreckage.

The operation involves several techniques, including hydrographic surveys, satellite-based search-and-rescue imagery, the excavation of mud and the removal of excess water to gain access to difficult areas around the crash site.

“Additional aircraft components have been recovered as efforts continue to locate and retrieve relevant materials for documentation and preservation in support of the ongoing investigation,” the statement said.

The recovery exercise is expected to provide investigators with additional evidence to support their examination of the crash.

Edo Governor Mourns Late NAF Pilot

Meanwhile, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has mourned Squadron Leader Mahmoud Idanegbe Aburime, the pilot of the ill-fated aircraft, describing his death as a painful loss to his family, the state and the country.

The aircraft, identified as NAF 931, crashed in Igbokoda on October 5, 2026, killing everyone on board.

Aburime, who hailed from Uwessan in Esan Central Local Government Area of Edo State, was remembered by the governor as a courageous military officer who served his country with dedication and humility.

In a statement personally signed on Wednesday, Okpebholo expressed sympathy with the late officer’s wife, daughter, parents and other family members affected by the tragedy.

He said the state shared in their grief and acknowledged the pain caused by the loss of a promising officer.

The governor also extended his condolences to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, officers and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, Aburime’s colleagues and coursemates, as well as the families of the other victims of the crash.

Aburime Remembered For Humility And Commitment To Education

Okpebholo disclosed that the late pilot was not only committed to his military career but also continued to pursue his education at the University of Benin, where he studied Mass Communication.

According to the governor, Aburime’s former classmates remembered him as a quiet, gentle and humble individual who did not use his military rank to intimidate or impress others.

The governor recalled that the officer usually sat at the back of the lecture hall and maintained a modest disposition despite the responsibilities associated with his military position.

He described this aspect of Aburime’s life as a reflection of his character, noting that the late officer demonstrated that it was possible to carry significant responsibilities without becoming arrogant.

Okpebholo further revealed that Aburime remained committed to his academic pursuits despite the demands of his military duties and had written a make-up examination at the university just days before the fatal crash.

He said the officer’s determination to continue learning demonstrated his discipline, dedication and desire for personal development.

The governor expressed sadness that Aburime’s life and future ambitions had been cut short by the tragic incident.

Governor Urges Young People To Emulate Late Officer

Okpebholo also urged young people in Edo State to learn from the late pilot’s commitment to national service, education, discipline and humility.

He said Aburime’s life demonstrated the importance of combining professional responsibilities with personal development and a willingness to contribute positively to society.

The governor encouraged young people to draw inspiration from the officer’s dedication to his career and education, describing his life as an example worth following.

He also offered prayers and condolences to the bereaved families, the Nigerian Air Force and everyone affected by the October 5 crash.

Meanwhile, recovery operations at the crash site remain ongoing as the Nigerian Air Force and other agencies continue efforts to retrieve additional aircraft components and preserve evidence for the investigation.

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