NAF assures families of NAF 931crash victims of continued salary payments until death benefits are fully paid

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reassured families impacted by the tragic crash of aircraft NAF 931 on October 5th, 2026. Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF, addressed the bereaved families on October 28th, 2026, as part of their ongoing support and information provision. This assurance comes from the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, who delivered heartfelt condolences and reiterated the NAF’s solidarity with the affected families.

The NAF has committed to continuing salary payments to the deceased personnel's families until their full death benefits are settled. This commitment reflects the CAS’s focus on personnel welfare as crucial to maintaining morale, commitment, and mission readiness. During the meeting with families, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet explained the technical and logistical difficulties faced in the swampy, waterlogged crash site, including the need for dewatering, engineering support, and site stabilization.

The NAF pledged to collaborate with relevant agencies and conduct a thorough, evidence-based investigation, refraining from speculating on the cause of the accident until all evidence had been properly examined. To address the emotional and spiritual needs of the bereaved, NAF provided access to religious leaders, including Christian chaplains and Muslim imams, as well as psychological support from renowned consultant psychologist Professor Ehize Odigie-Okpataku.

The families were also given the chance to voice their concerns and ask questions about the accident, recovery efforts, and welfare arrangements. The CAS emphasized that the NAF remains committed to open communication and will guide families on welfare and administrative matters through designated channels, including the Office of the Directorate of Veterans Affairs.