The Chairman of the National Assembly and Distinguished Senate President Dr. Godswill Akpabio has expressed deep concern over the recurring incidents of military aircraft crashes, which have resulted in the loss of military personnel, raising serious questions about aircraft maintenance, the condition of ageing fleets and compliance with established operational safety standards.
He stated that the Senate has resolved to investigate budgetary provisions for the maintenance of Nigerian Air Force aircraft following the reported crash of a military aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State, which claimed 25 lives.
Dr. Akpabio stressed that the serviceability, airworthiness and operational readiness of military aircraft remain critical to national security, intelligence gathering and the defence of the nation’s territorial integrity.
His Excellency, Dr. Akpabio noted that the continued loss of military personnel through avoidable aviation accidents underscored the urgent need for adequate funding, regular maintenance and strict adherence to internationally accepted aviation safety standards.
He warned that failure to conduct a transparent and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the latest crash could undermine efforts to prevent similar tragedies and ensure the safety of personnel entrusted with defending the country.
Consequently, the Distinguished Senate President urged the Federal Government to prioritise adequate budgetary provisions for the regular maintenance, rehabilitation and replacement of ageing military aircraft to enhance operational efficiency and safeguard the lives of military personnel.
Dr. Akpabio also mandated its Committees on Air Force and Aviation to undertake an assessment visit to the crash site, engage relevant Nigerian Air Force authorities and conduct a comprehensive audit of the serviceability and airworthiness of aircraft in the presidential and military fleets.
He further called on the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau to undertake a thorough investigation into the immediate and underlying causes of the crash and make their findings public.
According to the distinguished lawmaker, the investigation should identify possible operational and maintenance deficiencies, establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and recommend appropriate measures to prevent future occurrences.
He reaffirmed the importance of strengthening legislative oversight of military aviation operations, particularly in ensuring that funds appropriated for aircraft maintenance are effectively utilised to guarantee safety and operational readiness.
According to him, the protection of military personnel must remain a national priority, stressing the need for sustained investment in aviation safety, modern equipment and preventive maintenance across the nation’s military fleets.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman Senate Committee on Air Force, Senator Osita Ngwu, expressed concern over recurring military aircraft accidents and the need to strengthen aviation safety and operational standards.
Presenting the motion at the resumption of plenary on Tuesday, Senator Ngwu informed the Senate that a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft, with tail number NGR 931, crashed near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, on October 5, 2026.
According to him, the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos when the unfortunate incident occurred.
EmemMaria Ntedodom nipr
Deputy Director (Head: Information, Press and Public Relations)
+2347082203400
13th October, 2026.
