Precious Nwonu, Enugu

The Nigerian Air Force has pledged welfare assistance to families affected by the ongoing recovery operation following an aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the service would ensure that eligible families receive applicable entitlements and other approved benefits.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the support would include benevolent funds, scholarships for eligible children and other welfare provisions.

“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 service also announced that it had established a dedicated helpline at its headquarters to help affected families obtain timely and relevant information.

Meanwhile, the Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal MC Ekwueme, visited Igbokoda on Aneke’s directive to engage community leaders and residents over concerns about the possible impact of the recovery exercise on their water source.

Ekwueme acknowledged the concerns and assured residents that the Air Force would address them through appropriate channels. He also thanked the community for its patience and cooperation.

The NAF disclosed that recovery teams had deployed several pumping machines to remove water around the crash site in an effort to reach the main wreckage, which remains submerged and deeply embedded in the riverbed.

It said the operation had been complicated by the depth of the wreckage, difficult underwater conditions and challenging terrain, requiring specialised technical support and careful coordination.

The Air Force said its personnel remained committed to conducting the recovery exercise safely while respecting the dignity of the victims.

It also commended the Igbokoda community and partner agencies for their cooperation, promising to provide verified updates as the operation progresses.