Nearly 23 years after surviving one of Nigeria’s most tragic aviation disasters, Naomi Ukpong Osaghae is once again fighting for her life—this time, not in the skies, but against a worsening medical condition that threatens her mobility.
Osaghae, the only surviving crew member of the ill-fated EAS Airlines flight that crashed in Kano on May 4, 2002, has issued an urgent global appeal for financial and medical assistance as she faces the prospect of losing her ability to walk.
As the 23rd anniversary of the disaster approaches on May 5, 2026, her story has resurfaced as a stark reminder of the long-term human toll of aviation accidents—beyond the immediate headlines and investigations.
A Life Marked by Pain and Survival
In an emotional account, Osaghae revealed that she has endured over two decades of chronic pain and physical limitations resulting from injuries sustained in the crash. One of her legs was permanently damaged in the accident, forcing her into a wheelchair for four years during her initial recovery.
Despite years of resilience and rehabilitation, her condition has now deteriorated significantly.
Recent medical reports indicate that the second leg, which had supported her mobility over the years, has collapsed, leaving her in urgent need of comprehensive treatment and possible surgery.
“I am deeply afraid. I do not want to return to a wheelchair again,” she said, describing the psychological and physical trauma she endured during her years of immobility.
Urgent Medical Need, Mounting Costs
Doctors have reportedly advised immediate intervention to prevent permanent disability. However, the cost of the required procedures and post-surgical care exceeds ₦30 million—an amount she says is far beyond her personal means.
Her appeal highlights a broader concern about the lack of sustained support for victims and survivors of aviation incidents in Nigeria, particularly those injured in the line of duty.
Osaghae lamented years of neglect and abandonment, noting that despite being on active duty at the time of the crash, she has received little institutional assistance.
Call for National and Global Support
In her appeal, Osaghae is calling on government agencies, corporate organisations, humanitarian groups, and international aviation bodies—including the International Civil Aviation Organization—to come to her aid.
She is also urging the public to amplify her message and contribute financially where possible.
“This is a cry for help. I am still here, but I am afraid for my legs,” she said.
The appeal has begun to gain traction across social media, with hashtags such as #HelpNaomi and #MedicalAppeal drawing attention to her plight and mobilising support.
A Reminder of Unfinished Stories
While the Kano crash remains a painful chapter in Nigeria’s aviation history, Osaghae’s situation underscores a rarely discussed reality—the enduring struggles of survivors long after public attention fades.
Her story is not just about survival, but about dignity, care, and the urgent need for structured post-crisis support systems for aviation personnel and victims.
Support Details:
Account Name: Naomi Ukpong Osaghae
Bank: GTBank
Account Number: 0176265156
Phone: +234 708 194 9065
Email: naomiosaghae@gmail.com
Naomi Osaghae, the lone surviving crew member of the 2002 EAS Airlines Kano crash, seeks ₦30 million for urgent surgery as her health deteriorates 23 years after the tragedy.
23 years after surviving the EAS Airlines Kano crash, Naomi Osaghae appeals for ₦30m medical support to prevent permanent disability. Read her story and how to help.
#HelpNaomi #MedicalAppeal #Survivor #Nigeria #Humanity #Aviation #ICAO
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