Crashed Chopper: Chief Of Air Staff Engages Home Unit, Reaffirms Support To Families

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, on 8 October 2026, engaged personnel of 107 Air Maritime Group (AMG), NAF Base Benin City, the home unit of the ill-fated Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR 42 aircraft, reaffirming the Service’s commitment to supporting affected personnel and the families of those who lost their lives in the accident.

Expressing profound condolences, the CAS described the deceased as dedicated patriots who served the nation with honour and commitment. He assured their families of continued emotional, administrative and institutional support, including assistance towards the education of their children through scholarship awards. Air Marshal Aneke also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening 107 AMG through improved welfare, sustained training and the availability of appropriate operational platforms to restore the unit’s operational effectiveness.

He commended personnel for their resilience and professionalism, while expressing appreciation to the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies for their invaluable support in the ongoing search and recovery efforts.

Responding, the Commander, 107 AMG, Air Commodore Onu, expressed appreciation to the CAS for his leadership, compassion and commitment to the welfare of personnel and the families of the fallen. He noted that the engagement had boosted morale and reaffirmed the unit’s resolve to remain dedicated to duty and uphold the professional standards of the NAF. The CAS reiterated that the Service would continue to stand by the affected families and personnel while ensuring that a thorough and professional investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident is pursued.