Nigeria has launched an extensive search-and-rescue operation after a military aircraft carrying 32 individuals crashed in the country's southwest Ondo state. The wreckage of the ATR 42-500 aircraft has been located near the naval base in Igbokoda, according to Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo.

The plane, identified with tail number NGR 931, disappeared while en route from Benin to Lagos. Air traffic controllers lost contact with the aircraft at 09:13 local time (0813 GMT) on Monday, and subsequent attempts to re-establish radio communication were unsuccessful. Minister Keyamo announced the discovery of the wreckage and the commencement of rescue efforts via social media.

Preliminary information indicates that the aircraft was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members. The Nigerian Air Force confirmed the plane was an ATR-42 operating on a routine flight to Lagos. Rescue teams have been deployed to the vicinity of the crash site to assist in the operation.

Minister Keyamo stated that he has been in communication with Nigeria’s Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and has pledged the Aviation Ministry's full cooperation and assistance. As of the latest reports, authorities have not confirmed any casualties, nor has the extent of the aircraft's damage been immediately ascertained.

The incident has prompted a swift response from aviation authorities and the military. The focus remains on locating and assisting any survivors and determining the cause of the crash. The exact circumstances leading to the loss of contact and the subsequent crash are still under investigation.

This event highlights ongoing concerns regarding aviation safety within the region. While the investigation is in its early stages, factors such as weather conditions, mechanical failure, or pilot error will likely be examined as the investigation progresses.

Further updates are expected as the search and rescue operations continue and more information becomes available from official sources. The proximity of the crash site to a naval base may facilitate rescue efforts, but the terrain and conditions at the site will also play a role.

Officials are expected to provide more detailed information once the immediate rescue phase is concluded and a preliminary assessment of the crash site can be completed.