An Alpha Jet aircraft of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) crashed on Saturday a few kilometres from Karabonde town in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State. Both pilots on board successfully ejected and are reported to be in stable condition.
Sources told DAILY GAZETTE that the crash occurred around 4:10 pm, with no casualties or property damage recorded in the surrounding community.
In a statement, NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the aircraft experienced an emergency shortly after take-off during a post-inspection functional check flight at Air Force Base Kainji.
He said the pilots “acted swiftly and with remarkable composure,” steering the aircraft away from residential areas before ejecting. The crew is currently undergoing routine medical checks.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, commended the pilots for their courage, professionalism, and sound judgement, noting that their actions prevented what could have been a major tragedy.
He also ordered the immediate establishment of a Board of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the incident.
NAF reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high safety standards while safeguarding its personnel and protecting Nigerians in line with its constitutional mandate.
