A Nigerian Air Force jet has reportedly crashed near Karabonde, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
A Niger State-based online digital television network, Lapai TV, stated in a post on its official Facebook account on Saturday evening:
“Two Nigerian Air Force Pilots Reportedly Survive Alpha Jet Crash Close to Karabonde, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State,” the post stated.
A statement by Ehimen Ejodame, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) director of public relations and information, said the incident happened during a post-inspection test flight emergency.
“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 said.
“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.”
In 2023, a NAF trainer aircraft crashed in Makurdi, the Benue state capital. Although no deaths were recorded, the two pilots on board were injured and hospitalised.
In 2021, a fighter jet deployed to fight Boko Haram insurgents lost radar contact and crashed in Borno State.
