A Nigerian military aircraft carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members has crashed near a naval base in southwestern Ondo State while travelling to Lagos.
The aircraft lost contact with air traffic controllers at about 0813 GMT, according to Nigeria’s aviation minister, Festus Keyamo. Controllers were unable to re-establish communication before the aircraft disappeared from radar.
The wreckage was later located near a naval base in the coastal town of Igbokoda. Search-and-rescue teams were immediately deployed to the area as authorities began efforts to locate and assist those on board.
There was no immediate confirmation of deaths or injuries following the crash. Officials were expected to provide further information as rescue operations continued.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over military aviation safety and operational readiness in Nigeria. Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, including why communication with the aircraft was lost.
The crash is among Nigeria’s most serious military aviation incidents in recent years and is likely to increase scrutiny of aircraft maintenance, flight operations and safety procedures within the country’s armed forces.
Rescue teams remained at the crash site as officials worked to establish the condition of all 32 people aboard and determine the cause of the accident.
