Nigerian Military Aircraft Crash Kills 32 in Ondo State
Reuters reported on October 5, 2026 that a Nigerian military plane flying from Benin City to Lagos crashed in Ondo state, killing 25 passengers and 7 crew members.
The Nigerian Air Force confirmed the aircraft was an ATR-42 maritime patrol aircraft on a routine flight when it crashed.
Air traffic controllers lost contact with the aircraft at 09:13 local time (0813 GMT), and search-and-rescue operations have been launched to the crash site near the naval base in Igbokoda.
The wreckage has been located and aviation authorities are investigating the cause of the crash.
Nigeria's Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo confirmed the search-and-rescue operation is ongoing and that preliminary information indicates 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board.
The aircraft disappeared while flying from Benin to Lagos, prompting the emergency response and investigation.
This incident highlights ongoing aviation safety challenges in military operations and the importance of search-and-rescue capabilities.
Source: Reuters. This article summarizes the linked reporting and distinguishes announced plans from demonstrated results.