The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) from the site of the ATR-42 aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja.
According to Ejodame, technical teams from the Air Force and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau confirmed that the CVR was intact.
He added that a section of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR), popularly known as the black box, had also been recovered, while search operations continued to locate and retrieve the remaining part.
He said additional aircraft wreckage, engine components and human remains have also been recovered.
“Operations are ongoing in challenging swamp terrain, with teams working to retrieve outstanding components and facilitate necessary technical examinations.
“Investigation is being conducted with due diligence to ensure comprehensive, evidence-based findings,” he said.
Ejodame said the recovery process also involved careful attention to proper handling of human remains, with the Directorate of Identification and Classification undertaking necessary procedures for proper identification.
He added that NAF had sustained engagements with families of victims, recognising their need for information and support.
According to him, engagement with relevant authorities on environmental concerns raised by the host community also remains an important part of the broader response.
“While appreciating the public’s concern and interest, NAF appeals for continued patience and understanding as these critical processes require time, careful coordination and professional attention.
“Ultimate objective is not only to establish circumstances surrounding the crash, but also to draw necessary lessons to strengthen flight safety, enhance ongoing airpower operations and further safeguard the lives of personnel and citizens.”
Recall that on October 5, 2026, a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft, with registration number NAF 931, crashed in a swampy area near Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, while on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos.
All 25 people on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers, died in the accident.
Air traffic controllers lost contact with the aircraft at about 9:13 am.
President Bola Tinubu subsequently declared three days of national mourning, while recovery operations continued in the difficult swamp terrain.