NIA Directs Insurers to Expedite Claims for Families of 25 NAF Crash Victims

By LOVETH-AZODO CHIJIOKE, Lagos.

The Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) has directed its member companies to prioritise and expedite the settlement of all valid insurance claims arising from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft crash near Igbokoda, Ondo State, which claimed 25 lives.

The association said the directive was aimed at ensuring that the families of the deceased and affected institutions received the financial benefits to which they were entitled without unnecessary administrative delays.

The Chairman of NIA, Mrs Ebelechukwu Nwachukwu, disclosed this in a statement expressing the insurance industry’s condolences over the October 5 tragedy.

Nwachukwu, on behalf of the association’s Governing Council and the wider insurance industry, extended condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of the Air Staff, the Nigerian Armed Forces, aviation stakeholders and the bereaved families.

She described the incident as a devastating loss to the country, noting that the deceased had dedicated their lives to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty, peace and security.

“Words are insufficient to convey the profound grief felt across our industry following this tragedy. The loss of 25 patriotic military officers, dedicated airmen, and flight crew members represents an irreparable blow to our national security framework and a heartbreaking moment for our nation,” she said.

The NIA chairman said the association stood in solidarity with the Federal Government and military leadership during the period of mourning, while reaffirming the industry’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations to affected beneficiaries.

“The Nigerian Insurance Industry stands fully prepared to honour its obligations,” she said, adding that member companies had been directed to ensure the prompt and seamless processing of valid claims connected with the incident.

She expressed the association’s hope that the bereaved families would receive the financial support and benefits due to them without delay.

The association also prayed for strength and comfort for the grieving families and the peaceful repose of the deceased.