The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed additional pumping machines to remove water around an aircraft crash site in Igbokoda, Ondo State, to facilitate the recovery of the submerged wreckage, while engaging community leaders and residents over concerns about the impact of the operation on their water source.
The Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal MC Ekwueme, visited the community on the directive of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, to address residents’ concerns and reassure them of the service’s commitment to resolving the issues.
NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement, saying the visit was part of the service’s efforts to maintain community engagement and ensure responsible recovery operations.
He said Ekwueme acknowledged the concerns raised by residents and assured them that the NAF would address the issues through appropriate channels.
The AOC also appreciated the community for its patience and cooperation during the difficult period.
At the recovery site, Ekwueme engaged personnel involved in the operation, which has continued despite challenging terrain and difficult underwater conditions.
Ejodame explained that the additional pumping machines were deployed to remove water from the area surrounding the crash site, paving the way for access to the main wreckage, which remains submerged and deeply embedded in the riverbed.
He said the recovery process required sustained efforts, specialised technical support and careful coordination to ensure the operation progressed safely and effectively.
The spokesman added that the NAF recognised the grief of the bereaved families and the concerns of Nigerians awaiting further progress in the recovery exercise.
He said personnel were working diligently to access the main wreckage while prioritising their safety and preserving the dignity of the victims.
Beyond the recovery operation, Ejodame said the Chief of the Air Staff had reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to supporting the bereaved families.
He assured that applicable entitlements, including benevolent funds, scholarships for eligible children and other approved welfare benefits, would be processed.
According to him, the service’s responsibility to the affected families extends beyond the recovery exercise, adding that it remains committed to providing support with compassion and dignity.
He further disclosed that the NAF had established a dedicated helpline at its headquarters to enable affected families to obtain timely and appropriate information.
The spokesman said the service would continue engaging with the Igbokoda community, addressing environmental concerns, supporting bereaved families and providing verified updates as recovery operations progress.
