The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has offered to support military authorities where needed following the crash of a Nigeria Air Force NGR31 aircraft at Igbokoda, Ondo State, with approximately 32 persons on board.
In a statement signed by the Director-General, Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, the Authority expressed deep sadness by the crash and extended its thoughts and prayers to the personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, the occupants of the aircraft, their families, and all those affected by this distressing incident.
While military aviation operations are outside the regulatory oversight and operational mandate of the Authority, the NCAA said it remains committed to supporting the national response to this incident.
Accordingly, he said the NCAA stands ready to provide such technical expertise and assistance as may be required to support the ongoing search and rescue operations.
According to him, the NCAA is closely monitoring developments and will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities and agencies in accordance with established national emergency response protocols.
“At this difficult time, the Authority stands in solidarity with the Nigerian Air Force and all those directly affected by this incident. We remain hopeful for a positive outcome and pray for the safety and successful rescue of all involved,” the statement concluded.
In a similar development, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has also extended its sincere condolences to the Nigerian Air Force, and to the families and colleagues of all those on board. Our thoughts are with them, and with the Search and Rescue teams working at the site.
The NSIB also expressed readiness to assist the Nigerian Air Force, at its request, with whatever technical support may be required. That support can include the deployment of investigators and the use of the Bureau’s Flight Safety Laboratory for the recovery, readout and analysis of flight recorder data.
As this occurrence involves a military aircraft, investigative responsibility rests with the Nigerian Air Force. The Bureau will provide assistance upon a formal request from the Air Force.
The NSIB commends the swift activation of Search and Rescue and the efforts of first responders at Igbokoda. The public is urged to rely exclusively on official updates from the Nigerian Air Force on the rescue operation and on any investigation.
Further comment from the Bureau will be issued only as appropriate, and in consultation with the Nigerian Air Force.
