The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed an accident involving a Cessna 172 aircraft operated by Skypower Express at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State and have swung into investigation.
The aircraft, with nationality and registration marks 5N-ASR, was involved in the incident about 8:00 p.m. local time on December 16, 2025. It was en route from Kaduna International Airport to Port Harcourt International Airport when the crew declared an emergency and diverted to Owerri. The aircraft subsequently crashed in the approach area of Runway 17.
There were four persons on board at the time of the occurrence, and no fatalities have been reported.
Following the incident, airport emergency services were immediately activated and responded promptly. There was no post-crash fire, and flight operations at the airport were not disrupted, as the runway remained active with other aircraft operating safely after the incident.
Arrangements are currently being made for the recovery and evacuation of the aircraft from the crash site to enable a detailed examination of the wreckage as part of the investigation process.
The NSIB has formally activated its investigation protocols in line with its statutory mandate.
Reacting to the incident, the Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., expressed relief that no lives were lost.
He said the Bureau is coordinating with relevant authorities to secure the site and ensure a thorough investigation, adding that further updates will be communicated as the investigation progresses.