The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that the pilots involved in Saturday’s Alpha Jet crash in Niger State are in stable condition and undergoing routine medical evaluation.
Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, visited the aircrew at the hospital, where they are receiving care following their successful ejection from the aircraft.
In a statement on Sunday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, commended the “exceptional bravery and professionalism” of the pilots, who ejected safely after an in-flight emergency during a post-inspection functional check flight on 6 December 2025 at the NAF Base in 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 statement said.
Air Marshal Aneke praised the pilots for their courage, discipline and sound judgement, noting that their actions averted loss of life. He also ordered the immediate constitution of a Board of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the incident.
The NAF acknowledged the swift and professional response of its Search and Rescue teams, Fire and Crash Response units and medical personnel, who secured the area and ensured the pilots’ safety.
The incident, the NAF added, underscores the inherent risks associated with aviation operations, particularly in military settings where heightened flying activities support complex missions and readiness requirements.
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