Shettima Promises Support for Families of Crash Victims

On October 6, 2026, Vice President Kashim Shettima expressed the Federal Government's commitment to the families of the 25 personnel who died in a Nigerian Air Force plane crash in Ondo State. In a statement, Shettima emphasized that the government's responsibility would extend beyond mere condolences, acknowledging the profound loss experienced by the families.

He highlighted the personal sacrifices made by the deceased, who were on a routine mission from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos when their ATR-42 aircraft crashed near a naval base in Igbokoda. Shettima conveyed the nation's enduring gratitude to the fallen personnel and assured the bereaved that Nigeria would stand with them during their mourning.

President Bola Tinubu declared three days of national mourning and ordered flags to be flown at half-mast. He also called for a thorough investigation into the crash, describing it as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the nation.