Reps to conduct comprehensive air worthiness of NAF aircraft, probe Ondo crash

The leadership of House of Representatives has mandated e joint Committees on Air Force and Aviation to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash and conduct a comprehensive audit of serviceability and air worthiness of aircraft of the Nigerian Air Force.

The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance on the tragic crash of the NAF ATR-42 Aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State and the need to strengthen military aviation safety in Nigeria, sponsored by Chairman, House Committee on Air Force, Hon. Kabiru Rurum.

While urging Federal Government to ensure adequate funding and timely release of approved budgetary allocations to the Nigerian Air Force for aircraft maintenance, procurement of spare parts, technical support and other critical aviation safety requirements, the House underscored the need for the present administration to provide appropriate welfare support and compensation to the families of the deceased in accordance with applicable laws and policies.

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In the same vein, the House urged authorities of Nigerian Air Force to strengthen its aircraft maintenance and airworthiness management systems, with particular attention to ageing aircraft and ensure that only aircraft meeting prescribed safety requirements are deployed for operations, as well as strengthen periodic safety assessments, technical inspections and operational risk-management procedures to minimize the recurrence of similar tragedies.

In his lead debate on Tuesday, Hon. Rurum who expressed grief over the incident which occured on Monday, 5 October 2026 while undertaking a mission from Benin City to Lagos, lamented with profound sadness that all 25 persons reportedly on board, comprising 20 passengers and 5 Crew members lost their lives in the tragic incident.

“The House is aware that the Nigerian Air Force plays a critical role in national defence, intelligence military logistics and operations making aircraft serviceability and operational safety matters of paramount national importance. The House is concerned that the tragic loss of lives underscores the need for sustained attention to military air assets and aviation risk management within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

“The House is further concerned that inadequate funding, delayed budgetary releases, shortages of spare parts and other logistical constraints could undermine aircraft serviceability and compromise aviation safety. The House recognises the sacrifices of members of the Armed Forces who undertake demanding and hazardous assignments in the service of the nation.”

While commiserating with the President Bola Tinubu, the bereaved families, Nigerian Air Force, Armed Forces of Nigeria and the Government and people of Ondo State over this tragic loss, the lawmakers observed a minute of silence in honour of the 25 persons who lost their lives in the crash.

To this end, the House resolved to convey the condolences of the House to the bereaved families and the Nigerian Air Force, and reaffirm the commitment of the House of Representatives to supporting the welfare of military personnel and safety of the Armed Forces.

The lawmakers also showered encomium on the personnel and agencies involved in the emergency response and recovery operations for their efforts following the incident.