‘NAF Jet Wreckage Remains Submerged Under Riverbed’

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has engaged Igbokoda community leaders and residents following concerns over the potential impact of the ongoing recovery operations on their water source.

A statement by NAF spokesman Air Cdre Ehimen Ejodame yesterday said additional pumping machines had 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.

He said the Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal Ekwueme had visited Igbokoda on the directive of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke.

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He said the aim of the visit was to engage community leaders and residents following concerns over the potential impact of the ongoing recovery operations on their water source.

He said the AOC during the engagement acknowledged the concerns raised and assured the community of the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) commitment to addressing the issues.

He further appreciated the people for their patience and cooperation during this difficult period.

The AOC also engaged personnel at the recovery site, where significant progress is being made despite the 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,” he said.

He reiterated that the NAF recognises the profound grief of the bereaved families and the concerns of Nigerians awaiting further progress.

“While the difficult riverbed conditions and the depth at which the wreckage lies make the operations complex, recovery personnel continue to work diligently towards accessing the main wreckage, with due regard for their safety and the dignity of the victims.

The ongoing deployment of pumping equipment represents an important step towards facilitating the next phase of recovery,” he said.

He restated the beyond the recovery efforts, the air chief reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to supporting the bereaved families through this painful period.

He assured that all applicable entitlements, including benevolent funds, scholarships for eligible children and other approved welfare benefits, would be duly processed.

“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,” he added.

He said the service would continue to engage with affected families and has established a dedicated helpline at Headquarters Nigerian Air Force to facilitate access to timely and appropriate information.