The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that all 25 persons aboard its ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, died when the aircraft crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.

The aircraft, which had five crew members and 20 passengers on board, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of the deceased, describing the incident as a painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation.

Aneke assured the bereaved families of the full support of the Service during the period of mourning.

According to the NAF, search-and-rescue operations were activated immediately after the accident in coordination with relevant authorities to locate and account for everyone aboard the aircraft.

However, the Service said no survivor was found.

The five crew members were identified as Squadron Leader MI Aburime, the Flight Captain; Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje, Co-pilot; Flight Lieutenant IS Bako, Co-pilot; Warrant Officer Abubakar A, Aircraft Technician; and Corporal Uguru HC, Aircraft Technician.

The 20 passengers were identified as Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus, Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye, Flying Officer IM Adeshina, Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F, Master Warrant Officer Matini BA, Warrant Officer Nuhu FS and Flight Sergeant James RB.

Others were Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI, Sergeant Ani AE, Sergeant Izibenikien SI, Sergeant Alafuka C, Sergeant Mbadugha AN, Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC and Lance Corporal Eledan GE.

The remaining passengers were Mrs Ezeh Nneka, Godstmine Tarabina, Joy Micheal, Sunday Micheal, Ukeme David and Gideon Omotola.

The CAS has directed a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

The Air Force said it would continue to provide timely and verified information as the investigation progresses.

It also urged members of the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information, while appealing for respect for the privacy and dignity of the families of the deceased.

Meanwhile, a condolence register has been opened at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force, Abuja.

The register is available for senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects and convey messages of sympathy to the bereaved families and the Nigerian Air Force.