The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced plans to hold a memorial service and wreath-laying ceremony for victims of the October 5, 2026, aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The solemn ceremony is scheduled for November 26, 2026, at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja, where bereaved families, colleagues, friends and members of the military community will gather to honour the deceased.
The announcement comes as the Air Force confirmed the recovery of the aircraft’s Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), popularly known as the black box, from the crash site.
The NAF said data retrieved from the recorder was currently being analysed and was expected to provide significant information for the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed that recovery operations had also yielded several aircraft fragments and other relevant evidence.
He said the investigation was progressing in collaboration with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
According to him, several human remains have also been recovered from the crash site, while the identification process is ongoing.
The Air Force explained that the recovery operation had been particularly challenging due to the swampy nature of the terrain and the depth to which some of the aircraft wreckage penetrated the ground.
It added that it was engaging relevant agencies to address environmental concerns arising from the recovery exercise and ensure appropriate remediation after its completion.
The NAF assured Nigerians that the investigation would be conducted in accordance with the highest standards of professionalism, transparency and accountability, while supporting the independent technical processes required to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.
The Service also acknowledged the grief of the bereaved families and pledged sustained support for them throughout the difficult period.
It expressed appreciation to relevant government agencies, host communities and other stakeholders for their cooperation and assistance with the recovery and investigation efforts.
The Air Force said the November 26 memorial service would serve as a formal expression of its enduring respect for the personnel who lost their lives, while providing an opportunity for their loved ones and colleagues to pay their last respects.
