NAF Chief Enforces Stricter Safety Checks After Crash

Following the fatal crash of the Nigerian Air Force's ATR 42-500 aircraft, NAF 931, on October 5, 2026, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Chief of the Air Staff, has ordered stricter flight safety oversight. This directive was issued during a meeting with branch chiefs, Air Officers Commanding, principal staff officers, and senior commanders.

Aneke emphasized the importance of adhering to operational procedures, maintaining professional discipline, and improving safety management. A statement from Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, confirmed the service's commitment to personnel safety and institutional accountability.

Aneke expressed condolences to the bereaved families and the NAF community, stressing that operational effectiveness must be supported by sound judgment and high safety standards. He instructed commanders to ensure rigorous oversight of aircraft airworthiness, maintenance quality assurance, operational procedures, and aircrew competence, while also advocating for proactive safety monitoring and prompt reporting of potential hazards.