The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has assured families affected by the ongoing aircraft crash recovery operation in Igbokoda, Ondo State, that they will receive applicable welfare benefits and other approved assistance.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, gave the assurance as recovery teams continued efforts to reach the wreckage, which remains submerged and deeply embedded in the riverbed.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the service remained committed to supporting bereaved families throughout the difficult period.
According to the statement, the assistance would cover applicable entitlements, benevolent funds, scholarships for eligible children and other approved welfare benefits.
“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 announced the establishment of a dedicated helpline at its headquarters to help affected families obtain timely and relevant information about the incident and recovery efforts.
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Meanwhile, the Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal MC Ekwueme, visited Igbokoda on Aneke’s directive to meet community leaders and residents concerned about the possible effects of the recovery operation on their water source.
During the meeting, Ekwueme acknowledged the concerns raised by residents and assured them that the NAF would address the issues through appropriate channels. He also thanked the community for its patience and cooperation.
The statement disclosed that recovery teams had deployed several pumping machines to drain water around the crash site and improve access to the submerged wreckage.
However, the operation has been slowed by difficult underwater conditions, the depth of the wreckage and the challenging terrain.
The NAF said the recovery exercise required sustained efforts, specialised technical assistance and careful coordination to ensure personnel could work safely.
It added that recovery teams remained committed to progressing with the operation while treating the victims with dignity.
The service expressed appreciation to the Igbokoda community, its personnel and partner agencies for their cooperation, promising to provide verified updates on significant developments as the operation continues.