Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 Crash Claims 25 Lives in Ondo

On October 5, 2026, a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft, identified as NAF 931, crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, while traveling from Benin to Lagos. All 25 individuals on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers, perished in the incident.

The cause of the crash is currently under investigation by relevant authorities. This tragic event has reignited public concern regarding aviation safety in Nigeria, particularly following another significant incident earlier in the year involving an Embraer ERJ 170-100LR, registration 5N-ENR 68, which occurred at Oba Akenzua II Airport in Benin, Edo State.

In that incident, the aircraft, carrying 68 people, struck approach-lighting installations and two concrete structures but resulted in no injuries or fatalities. Additionally, there were other incidents in 2026, including an engine failure and an unstable landing, all of which are under investigation by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).