Adedokun Waliyu 
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into a runway excursion involving an Enugu Air Embraer E170 aircraft at Benin Airport.
The aircraft, operating as Flight 4264 (registration 5N-ENR) from Lagos to Benin, overran the end of Runway 05 while landing.
According to the NSIB, the incident involved 63 passengers and five crew members. All passengers and crew have been accounted for, and no injuries were reported.
In a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, the Bureau said its Go Team was deployed to the scene within minutes of receiving notification.
The investigation team is currently gathering and preserving evidence, interviewing the flight crew and other relevant personnel, examining the aircraft, assessing runway conditions, and reviewing operational and technical information to determine the cause and contributing factors of the incident.
The NSIB confirmed that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and other relevant airport authorities have been notified, while the aircraft has been secured.
Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., expressed relief that all passengers and crew members were safe.
He stated that although there were no injuries, every runway excursion is a serious aviation occurrence that requires a thorough and independent investigation. He also urged the public to avoid speculation while investigators carry out their work in line with international standards.
The Bureau said a preliminary report will be released within 30 days in accordance with regulatory requirements, while the final investigation report, including safety recommendations, will be published after the investigation is completed.
The incident temporarily disrupted flight operations at Benin Airport as emergency responders secured the aircraft and aviation officials assessed the situation.
Enugu Air also acknowledged the incident, saying the runway excursion may lead to temporary adjustments to some flight schedules. The airline assured affected passengers that they would be contacted directly and provided with the necessary assistance.
