Nigerian military jet crashes in Niger State
A Nigerian Air Force jet on Saturday crashed near Karabonde, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
The incident which was initially reported by Lapai TV in a post via its Facebook handle has now been confirmed by the Nigerian military.
“Two Nigerian Air Force Pilots Reportedly Survive Alpha Jet Crash Close to Karabonde, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State,” the post said.
An eyewitness also confirmed the incident stating that the two pilots successfully ejected before the aircraft went down.
“I think the aircraft took off from the Kainji air force base. We learnt that the air force is mobilising to the crash site,” the witness said.
Reacting, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigeria Air Force (NAF), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the incident in a statement on Saturday.
The aircraft, according to the NAF spokesman, developed an in-flight emergency, with the pilots manoeuvering the jet away from populated areas before ejecting.
Ejodame commended the bravery of the pilots who are currently undergoing medical evaluation.
The statement read in part: “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 Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, according to NAF spokesman, praised the pilots for their courage, adding that a board of inquiry to investigate the incident had been constituted.
“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,” he added.
