The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has mourned Squadron Leader Mahmoud Aburime, who was one of the air force officers that died in the ill-fated Nigerian Air Force plane crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State on October 5, 2026.
Key Highlights
- Governor Okpebholo mourns Squadron Leader Mahmoud Idanegbe Aburime, who died in the NAF 931 crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
- Aburime hailed from Uwessan in Esan Central LGA, the governor’s home community.
- He was commissioned in 2015 and rose to Squadron Leader in August 2025.
- He logged more than 4,000 flying hours and trained pilots at the 401 Flying Training School, Kaduna.
- Okpebholo extended condolences to the Chief of the Air Staff and families of all crash victims.
Governor Okpebholo in his condolence message said: “The death of Squadron Leader Mahmoud Idanegbe Aburime, a proud son of Edo State and an officer of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), is a painful loss to his family, our state and the country.
“He died in the crash involving Nigerian Air Force Aircraft NAF 931 in Igbokoda, Ondo State, on October 5, 2026, leaving behind a family, colleagues and friends who will deeply miss him.
“As Governor of Edo State, I mourn the loss of one of our own. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, daughter, parents and everyone affected by this tragedy.
“While no words can ease the pain of losing a loved one, I want his family to know that Edo State grieves with them.”
Giving a description of the late air force officer, Governor Okpebholo said that Aburime hailed from Uwessan in Esan Central Local Government Area, his home community.
“His death is, therefore, a painful loss not only to Edo State and Nigeria, but also to a community that can no longer celebrate the presence of one of its sons who served his country with dedication.
“As someone who shares roots with him, I feel this loss deeply. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and the entire Uwessan community at this difficult time,” he added.
Aburime’s Military Career
Born on November 12, 1991, Aburime joined the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a member of the 62nd Regular Course and was commissioned as a pilot officer on September 12, 2015.
Through discipline and dedication, he rose to the rank of Squadron Leader in August 2025.
During his career, he participated in several military operations, including Operations Lafiya Dole, Sharan Daji, Dirin Mikiya, Pulo Shield and Delta Safe.
With more than 4,000 flying hours, he contributed to national security through operational missions and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance activities.
Beyond his operational duties, Aburime also helped train future pilots at the 401 Flying Training School in Kaduna. His contribution to military aviation went beyond the missions he flew to the knowledge and experience he passed on to younger officers.
What also stands out about his life is his humility. While studying Mass Communication at the University of Benin, he did not flaunt his military rank.
His classmates remember him as a quiet, gentle man who often sat at the back of the lecture hall.
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“Beyond the Uniform”
In his eulogy, Okpebholo affirmed that “beyond the uniform was a husband and father who loved reading, gospel music, news programmes and documentaries.
“His wife and daughter have lost someone whose place in their lives cannot be filled. They deserved more years together, more memories and more opportunities to share in his achievements.”
The governor extended his condolences to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke; the Nigerian Air Force, Aburime’s colleagues and course mates, and the families of all those who died in the crash.
“To the young people of Edo State, Aburime’s life offers an important lesson. His commitment to service, education, discipline and humility is an example worth following.
“He served his country while continuing to improve himself and helping others prepare for their own responsibilities,” the governor said.
He stated that Edo State has lost a son, Uwessan has lost one of its own, the Nigerian Air Force has lost an experienced officer, and a family has lost a beloved husband and father.
“May God comfort his family, grant eternal rest to the departed and give all those mourning the strength to carry on.
“Rest in peace, Squadron Leader Mahmoud Idanegbe Aburime. You served Nigeria with honour, and we will remember you,” the governor concluded.
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