Breaking.. NAF Jet crashes in Niger, pilots ejects, survive as Air Chief orders probe

By Johnson Arua

A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Alpha Jet crashed near Karabonde in Niger State on Saturday after developing an in-flight emergency, but both pilots survived after successfully ejecting.

The aircraft was on a post-inspection functional check flight from the Air Force Base in Kainji when the incident occurred.

Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the incident, praising the pilots for their swift and professional response.

“Shortly after take-off, the aircraft developed an emergency, prompting the pilots to act swiftly and with remarkable composure,” Ejodame said.

“They expertly manoeuvred the aircraft away from populated areas before executing a safe ejection. The crew is currently undergoing routine medical evaluation.”

He added that their actions averted what could have been a major disaster.

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, also commended the pilots, describing their conduct as exemplary.

“Their courage, discipline and sound judgement prevented loss of life,” the CAS said, while directing the immediate constitution of a Board of Inquiry to determine the cause of the crash.

The NAF assured Nigerians that it remains committed to enforcing strict safety protocols.

“The Nigerian Air Force reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to stringent safety standards and operational excellence,” Ejodame stated.

“The NAF remains dedicated to safeguarding its personnel while protecting the lives and property of citizens in line with its constitutional mandate.”

Authorities say investigations are already underway to establish what led to the emergency.