An Arik Air Boeing 737-7GL aircraft operating a scheduled Lagos to Port Harcourt flight suffered an in-flight engine anomaly on Wednesday, forcing an emergency diversion and safe landing at Benin Airport.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed the incident, stating the aircraft with registration 5N-MJF experienced abnormal engine indications during the cruise phase.
"The flight crew conducted a precautionary engine shutdown and diverted to the nearest suitable airport, Benin. The aircraft landed without incident, and all passengers and crew disembarked normally. No injuries have been reported," said NSIB Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji.
Preliminary visual assessment at Benin Airport revealed significant damage to the affected engine.
In accordance with its statutory mandate under ICAO Annex 13 and Nigerian civil aviation regulations, the NSIB has commenced a full investigation. A preliminary assessment team is en route to Benin to secure the aircraft, document evidence, interview personnel and witnesses, and recover flight data and cockpit voice recorder information.
The Bureau is working closely with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Arik Air, and other stakeholders to determine the sequence of events and contributing factors.
A preliminary report will be issued within 30 days, with the final report published upon conclusion of the investigation.
The NSIB urged any member of the public with relevant information to contact the Bureau through official channels, emphasizing that passenger and crew safety remains its highest priority.
The incident adds to recent safety concerns in Nigerian aviation, though the successful diversion and safe disembarkation demonstrate the effectiveness of emergency protocols and crew training.
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