The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has assured families of personnel killed in the October 5 aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, that their deceased relatives’ salaries will continue until all outstanding death benefits are fully paid.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, gave the assurance on Wednesday during an engagement with the bereaved families to address their concerns and provide updates on recovery operations and the ongoing investigation into the crash involving aircraft NAF 931.
According to a statement issued by the NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the decision is aimed at protecting the financial stability of affected families while the processing and payment of their benefits continue.
Represented by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Aneke expressed condolences to the families and reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to supporting them beyond the immediate aftermath of the tragedy.
“The Nigerian Air Force stands with you, and our thoughts and prayers remain with every family affected by this tragedy,” he said.
The CAS explained that the continued salary payments form part of a welfare policy he introduced to shield dependants from financial hardship while administrative procedures for death benefits are being concluded.
He stressed that the welfare of personnel and the security of their families remain critical to sustaining morale, commitment and operational readiness within the Service.
On the recovery operation, Aneke said the swampy, waterlogged terrain and difficult access to the crash site had created significant technical and logistical challenges.
He explained that the operation required dewatering, engineering support and site stabilisation, adding that the NAF would continue working with relevant agencies to recover evidence and support a thorough investigation.
The Air Chief cautioned against speculation over the cause of the crash, saying the Service would not draw conclusions until the relevant evidence had been properly examined.
He reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to accountability and regular communication, assuring the families that their concerns would remain central to the Service’s response.
“Your grief matters, your questions matter, and the dignity of your loved ones will remain central to our response to this tragedy,” Aneke said.
The NAF also pledged to maintain contact with the families and provide guidance on welfare and administrative matters through designated liaison channels, including the Office of the Directorate of Veterans Affairs.
The engagement provided the bereaved families with an opportunity to raise concerns and seek clarification on the crash, recovery efforts and welfare arrangements.
To address their emotional and spiritual needs, the NAF facilitated counselling sessions with consultant psychologist Professor Ehize Odigie-Okpataku, alongside prayer and pastoral support from Christian chaplains and Muslim imams.
The NAF 931 ATR 42-500 aircraft crashed at Igbokoda in Ondo State on October 5, killing all 25 people on board. Investigations into the accident are ongoing.
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