The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has engaged the Igbokoda community in Ondo State over concerns about the impact of ongoing recovery operations on their water source, while giving an update on progress at the crash site.
In a statement on Thursday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal MC Ekwueme, visited Igbokoda on the directive of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke.
According to Ejodame, the AOC acknowledged the concerns raised by the community, assured them of NAF’s commitment to addressing the issues, and appreciated them for their patience and cooperation.
He said the AOC also visited personnel at the recovery site where significant progress is being made despite challenging terrain and difficult underwater conditions.
“Multiple pumping machines have been deployed to remove water from the area surrounding the crash site, a critical step towards accessing the main wreckage, which remains submerged and deeply embedded in the riverbed. This painstaking process requires sustained effort, specialised technical support and careful coordination to advance the recovery operations safely and effectively,” the statement said.
The NAF said it recognises the profound grief of the bereaved families and assured that recovery personnel are working diligently to access the main wreckage with due regard for safety and dignity of the victims.
Beyond recovery, the CAS reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to supporting bereaved families, assuring that all applicable entitlements, including benevolent funds, scholarships for eligible children and other approved welfare benefits, would be duly processed.
The Service said it has established a dedicated helpline at its Headquarters to facilitate access to timely information for affected families.
Ejodame added that the NAF acknowledges the environmental concerns raised by the Igbokoda community and remains committed to engaging residents and addressing the issues through appropriate channels, while appreciating the community’s cooperation and the dedication of personnel and partner agencies working under challenging conditions.
