The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed deep condolences to the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the victims, describing the crash as a profoundly painful moment for both the Nigerian Air Force and the entire nation.
Air Marshal Aneke assured the bereaved families of the Service’s unwavering support during this difficult time and ordered an immediate, comprehensive investigation into the cause of the accident. He also appealed to the public to avoid speculation or the distribution of unverified claims out of respect for the dignity and privacy of the deceased personnel and civilians.
The Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed that a official condolence register has been opened at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in Abuja for government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, security chiefs, and members of the public wishing to pay their respects.
The official list of the 25 victims released by the Nigerian Air Force includes:
Crew Members
Squadron Leader M.I. Aburime (Flight Captain)
Squadron Leader A.P. Man-Ugwueje (Co-pilot)
Flight Lieutenant I.S. Bako (Co-pilot)
Warrant Officer Abubakar A. (Aircraft Technician)
Corporal Uguru H.C. (Aircraft Technician)
Passengers
6. Flight Lieutenant T.L. Lazarus
7. Flight Lieutenant M. Akinloye
8. Flying Officer I.M. Adeshina
9. Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F.
10. Master Warrant Officer Matini B.A.
11. Warrant Officer Nuhu F.S.
12. Flight Sergeant James R.B.
13. Flight Sergeant Mohammed A.I.
14. Sergeant Ani A.E.
15. Sergeant Izibenikien S.I.
16. Sergeant Alafuka C.
17. Sergeant Mbadugha A.N.
18. Lance Corporal Ugwuba F.C.
19. Lance Corporal Eledan G.E.
20. Mrs. Ezeh Nneka
21. Godstmine Tarabina
22. Joy Micheal
23. Sunday Micheal
24. Ukeme David
25. Gideon Omotola