Two NAF pilots escape death as jet develops fault

File photo of NAF Alpha jet 4.

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Two Nigerian Air Force Alpha Jet pilots on Saturday escaped death after safely ejecting from their aircraft when it developed an in-flight emergency in Niger State.

The incident occurred during a post-inspection functional check flight at the NAF Base, Kainji, in the state.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said in a statement on Saturday that the pilots managed the situation with “exceptional bravery and professionalism,” manoeuvring the jet away from populated areas before ejecting.

He said the two pilots were already undergoing routine medical evaluation.

“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,” part of the statement read.

Ejodame added that the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, praised the pilots for their courage, discipline and sound judgement, which prevented loss of life.

He said the CAS had also ordered the immediate constitution of a Board of Inquiry to investigate the cause of 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,” the statement added.

The NAF’s Alpha Jets are primarily deployed for training and air-to-ground missions and have been used extensively in internal security operations across the country.

The PUNCH journalist, Solomon, has five years experience covering crime, judiciary and defence beats.

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