The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has assured families affected by the ongoing aircraft crash recovery operations in Igbokoda, Ondo State, of its commitment to providing welfare support and processing all applicable benefits.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, gave the assurance as recovery efforts continued at the crash site, where difficult underwater conditions and the depth of the wreckage have hampered operations.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the service said it would provide necessary assistance to bereaved families during the difficult period.

The statement listed the support to include applicable entitlements, benevolent funds, scholarships for eligible children and other approved welfare benefits.

“The NAF recognises that its responsibility to the affected families extends beyond the recovery operations and remains committed to providing the necessary support with compassion, dignity and a deep sense of duty,” the statement said.

The Air Force also disclosed that it had established a dedicated helpline at its headquarters to enable affected families to access timely and appropriate information.

Meanwhile, the Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal MC Ekwueme, visited Igbokoda on the directive of the Chief of the Air Staff to engage community leaders and residents over concerns about the possible impact of the recovery exercise on their water source.

During the engagement, Ekwueme acknowledged the concerns raised by residents and assured them that the NAF would address the issues through appropriate channels.

He also commended the community for its patience and cooperation throughout the recovery exercise.

The statement further disclosed that recovery personnel had deployed multiple pumping machines to remove water from the area surrounding the crash site in an effort to gain access to the main wreckage, which remains submerged and deeply embedded in the riverbed.

It noted that the operation required sustained effort, specialised technical support and careful coordination because of the challenging terrain and underwater conditions.

The Air Force said its personnel remained committed to advancing the recovery operation safely while respecting the dignity of the victims.

The service also expressed appreciation to the Igbokoda community, its personnel and partner agencies for their cooperation, pledging to provide verified updates on significant developments as the operation progresses.