By Mardiyyah Abubakar
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has pledged comprehensive welfare support for families affected by the ongoing recovery operation following an aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, as efforts continue to retrieve the wreckage submerged in the river.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, gave the assurance, reaffirming the service’s commitment to supporting bereaved families beyond the recovery exercise.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the support would include applicable entitlements, benevolent funds, scholarships for eligible children and other approved welfare benefits.
The statement emphasised that the NAF remained committed to supporting affected families with compassion, dignity and a strong sense of responsibility.
To facilitate communication, the service has also established a dedicated helpline at its headquarters to provide families with timely and appropriate information.
Meanwhile, the Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal MC Ekwueme, visited Igbokoda on the directive of the Chief of the Air Staff to engage community leaders and residents over concerns about the possible impact of the recovery operation on their water source.
Ekwueme acknowledged the concerns and assured residents that the issues would be addressed through appropriate channels. He also commended the community for its patience and cooperation.
The NAF said recovery teams had deployed several pumping machines to remove water around the crash site, improving access to the main wreckage, which remains submerged and deeply embedded in the riverbed.
It noted that the difficult terrain and underwater conditions had made the operation technically demanding, requiring sustained effort, specialised support and careful coordination.
The service reaffirmed that the recovery exercise would continue with safety as a priority, while ensuring that the dignity of the victims was respected.
It also expressed appreciation to the Igbokoda community, its personnel and partner agencies for their cooperation, pledging to provide verified updates as the operation progresses.
