A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Alpha Jet has reportedly crashed near Karabonde, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, on Saturday evening, December 6.
Two pilots onboard survived the incident after successfully ejecting from the aircraft.
The Air Force acknowledged the accident, and praised the NAF Alpha Jet pilots for displaying courage and professionalism.
A Niger State-based digital television network, Lapai TV, announced the incident in a post on its official Facebook account, Saturday evening, December 6.
The post, accompanied by a one-minute video, read, “Two Nigerian Air Force Pilots Reportedly Survive Alpha Jet Crash Close to Karabonde, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State”.
The full statement 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.
“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,” said the statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, on Saturday 6th December 2025.
