The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced that it will continue to pay the salaries of personnel who lost their lives in the tragic aircraft crash that occurred on October 5, 2026, in Igbokoda, Ondo State. This assurance was made during a recent engagement with the bereaved families, aimed at addressing their concerns and providing welfare support while the death benefits are processed.

Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Director of Public Relations and Information Headquarters of the NAF, confirmed this commitment on social media, stating that the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, had directed that the salaries would remain active until the next of kin receive the full death benefits. This measure is intended to ensure financial stability for the dependents of the deceased during this difficult time.

During the engagement, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, who represented the Chief of Air Staff, expressed condolences to the families and reiterated the NAF's dedication to their welfare. He emphasized, "The Nigerian Air Force stands with you, and our thoughts and prayers remain with every family affected by this tragedy."

The meeting also served as a platform for the Air Force to update families on the ongoing recovery operations and investigations related to the crash of the NAF 931 ATR 42-500 aircraft. Gabkwet explained that the recovery efforts have faced significant challenges due to the swampy and waterlogged terrain at the crash site, necessitating engineering support and site stabilization.

He assured the families that the NAF is committed to collaborating with relevant agencies to sustain recovery efforts and conduct a thorough investigation into the accident. However, he cautioned against speculation regarding the cause of the crash until all evidence has been meticulously examined.

In a bid to address the emotional and psychological impact of the incident, the NAF has organized support from religious leaders, including Christian chaplains and Muslim imams, to provide spiritual guidance and prayers for the bereaved families. Additionally, a consultant psychologist, Professor Ehize Odigie-Okpataku, has been engaged to offer psychological assistance through individual counseling sessions.

The families were given the opportunity to voice their concerns and seek clarification on various aspects of the accident, recovery efforts, and welfare arrangements. The Chief of Air Staff assured them that their grief and questions are important and that the dignity of the deceased personnel will remain a priority in the Air Force's response.

The NAF has committed to maintaining open lines of communication with the families, providing guidance on welfare and administrative matters through designated liaison channels, including the Office of the Directorate of Veterans Affairs. The service remains focused on supporting the bereaved families, ensuring dignified treatment of the deceased, and facilitating a credible investigation into the tragic accident.