The Nigerian Air Force has assured families affected by the ongoing aircraft crash recovery operations in Igbokoda, Ondo State, of its commitment to providing welfare support and ensuring that all applicable benefits are processed.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, gave the assurance as recovery efforts continued at the crash site, where difficult underwater conditions and the depth of the wreckage have complicated operations.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the service would provide the necessary assistance to bereaved families during the difficult period.
The statement said the support would include applicable entitlements, benevolent funds, scholarships for eligible children and other approved welfare benefits.
It added that the NAF recognised its responsibility to the affected families extended beyond the recovery operations.
“The NAF recognises that its responsibility to the affected families extends beyond the recovery operations and remains committed to providing the necessary support with compassion, dignity and a deep sense of duty,” the statement said.
The Air Force also disclosed that it had established a dedicated helpline at its headquarters to facilitate access to timely and appropriate information for affected families.
Meanwhile, the Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal MC Ekwueme, visited Igbokoda on the directive of the CAS to engage community leaders and residents over concerns about the possible impact of the recovery operations on their water source.
During the engagement, Ekwueme acknowledged the community’s concerns and assured residents of the NAF’s commitment to addressing the issues through appropriate channels.
He also appreciated the people for their patience and cooperation during the recovery exercise.
The statement further disclosed that recovery personnel had deployed multiple pumping machines to remove water from the area surrounding the crash site in a bid to gain access to the main wreckage, which remains submerged and deeply embedded in the riverbed.
It noted that the operation required sustained effort, specialised technical support and careful coordination because of the challenging terrain and underwater conditions.
The NAF said recovery personnel remained committed to advancing the operation safely while respecting the dignity of the victims.
The service also expressed appreciation to the Igbokoda community, personnel and partner agencies for their cooperation, adding that it would continue to provide verified updates on significant developments as the operation progresses.