Two Air Force pilots cheat death in jet crash
By Adeola Atanda
Two years after a trainer jet belonging to the Nigeria Air Force crashed in Benue, a similar incident happened in Karabonde community in Borgu LGA of Niger state, on Saturday.
Like in the first mishap, the two pilots onboard the latest ill-fated jet similarly escaped with their lives. The pilots, reportedly, had ejected from the jet before it crashed onto the earth.
The director of public relations and information for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Ehimen Ejodame, in a statement, said that the incident happened during a post-inspection test flight emergency.
It reads: “The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) commends the exceptional bravery and professionalism of its Alpha Jet pilots who safely ejected following an in-flight emergency during a post-inspection functional check flight today, 6 December 2025, at Nigerian Air Force Base Kainji.
“Shortly after take-off, the aircraft developed an emergency, prompting the pilots to act swiftly and with remarkable composure. They expertly manoeuvred the aircraft away from populated areas before executing a safe ejection. The crew is currently undergoing routine medical evaluation.
“The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has praised the pilots for their courage, discipline and sound judgement, which prevented loss of life. He has also directed the immediate constitution of a Board of Inquiry to investigate the incident.
“The Nigerian Air Force reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to stringent safety standards and operational excellence. The NAF remains dedicated to safeguarding its personnel while protecting the lives and property of citizens in line with its constitutional mandate.”
