NAF Pilot Ahamefule Man-Ugwueje Dies in Ondo Crash

Squadron Leader Ahamefule Man-Ugwueje, a pilot with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), died in a tragic aircraft crash on 5 October while piloting an ATR 42-500MP Maritime Patrol aircraft near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State. Man-Ugwueje had married Flight Lieutenant Damilola Adekunle on 19 September 2026, just over two weeks before the incident.

The aircraft, which was on a routine flight from Benin City, Edo State, to Lagos, lost contact with air traffic controllers at approximately 9:13 a.m. Attempts to re-establish communication were unsuccessful, leading to the discovery of the crash site.

All 25 individuals on board, including five crew members and 20 passengers, were confirmed dead. The aircraft was operated by the 81 Air Maritime Group and was primarily used for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance operations.

A comprehensive investigation into the crash has been ordered by the NAF, with condolences expressed by President Bola Tinubu and Defence Minister Christopher Musa.