A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Alpha Jet reportedly crashed on the evening of Saturday, December 6, near Karabonde in the Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State. Initial unconfirmed reports from local sources and a Niger state-based digital television network, Lapai TV, indicated that the two pilots onboard successfully survived the incident after safely ejecting from the aircraft.

Further details confirmed that the Alpha Jet, belonging to the Nigerian Air Force, crashed specifically at the NAF Base in Kainji, Niger State, shortly after take-off. The aircraft reportedly developed an emergency during its flight. In a display of expert airmanship, the pilots swiftly maneuvered the aircraft away from populated areas, preventing potential casualties on the ground, before executing a safe ejection.

The incident was officially confirmed by Ehimen Ejodame, the spokesman of the NAF, in a statement released on Saturday. He stated that the crew is currently undergoing routine medical evaluation at a NAF health facility. The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, commended the pilots for their courage, discipline, and sound judgment, which were instrumental in preventing further loss of life.

In response to the crash, Air Marshal Aneke has directed the immediate constitution of a Board of Inquiry to thoroughly investigate the incident and determine its cause. The NAF has also reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to maintaining stringent safety standards and operational excellence. The force remains dedicated to safeguarding its personnel while protecting the lives and property of citizens in line with its constitutional mandate.

Local accounts placed the incident scene near a small settlement called Karabonde, sharing proximity with an Air Force base in New Busa and the Wawa military cantonment. While the cause of the crash has not yet been determined, it occurred in an area that NAF jets have been surveying in recent times, notably following the abduction of more than 300 students in Papiri, Niger State. However, this particular crash is an isolated event, and details regarding its specific cause are pending the outcome of the official inquiry.