A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Alpha Jet crashed on Saturday in a community within Borgu LGA of Niger State.
Gatekeepers News reports that the two pilots on board ejected before the aircraft went down near Karabonde community.
NAF spokesperson Ehimen Ejodame said the crash happened during a post-inspection check flight. According to him, the emergency started shortly after take-off, leading the pilots to respond quickly.
He said, “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
Ejodame explained that the pilots steered the aircraft away from residential areas before ejecting. He added that they are now undergoing routine medical checks.
He also noted that the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has applauded the pilots for their calm judgement, saying their actions helped prevent loss of life. Ejodame added that the Air Marshal has ordered a Board of Inquiry to examine the cause of the incident.
NAF assured Nigerians that it will continue to uphold strict safety measures. “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,” Ejodame stated.
This crash adds to previous air incidents involving NAF aircraft. A trainer jet went down in Makurdi in 2023, leaving two pilots injured. In 2021, a fighter jet deployed against Boko Haram crashed in Borno after losing radar contact. Another aircraft crashed in Kaduna in 2017, and the then spokesperson, Olatokunbo Adesanya, confirmed that one pilot instructor died. In 2015, a Dornier-228 aircraft with call sign NAF030 crashed in Kaduna, resulting in seven deaths.
