Kwara State Government Responds to Emergency Landing of International Aviation College Training Aircraft
The Kwara State government expressed profound relief on Saturday following the emergency landing of a training aircraft belonging to the International Aviation College in Ilorin.
This marks the government’s first official statement since the incident occurred on Friday. The State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo-Kawu, conveyed reassurance that the situation was being managed effectively.
“The training aircraft was compelled to make an emergency landing, resulting in a non-fatal accident involving both the pilot and the instructor. Both individuals were immediately transported to a hospital in Ilorin and are currently receiving medical care,” the commissioner stated.
Hajia Modibbo-Kawu praised the prompt and professional response by the college authorities and medical teams, stressing the critical importance of emergency preparedness and rigorous compliance with safety protocols within aviation training institutions.
She also assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to ascertain the cause of the incident and to implement preventive measures that will enhance future safety.
“The Kwara State government remains steadfast in its commitment to the safety and welfare of all residents and will continue to back initiatives that improve safety standards across all sectors,” she added.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State extended his heartfelt wishes for the swift recovery of the affected individuals through the commissioner’s statement.
Providing further clarity, Captain Yakubu Okatahi, Rector of the International Aviation College, disclosed additional details regarding the incident.
“Our instructor was conducting a routine training flight when the aircraft experienced an accident during landing. We are thankful that there were no fatalities. Both the pilot and instructor were swiftly evacuated to the hospital last night,” Captain Okatahi explained.
He continued, “This morning, they underwent CT scans and MRIs, which confirmed their stable condition. While the aircraft sustained damage, we are grateful that no lives were lost.”
Captain Okatahi also confirmed that the National Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) promptly visited the site, conducted a detailed investigation, and has since left. Engineers from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) are currently on the ground and have conducted thorough checks, assuring that the situation is under control.
“The investigation is now complete, and we are awaiting the official report,” he concluded.