By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commended the exceptional courage, skill and professionalism displayed by its Alpha Jet pilots who safely ejected after encountering an in-flight emergency during a post-inspection functional check flight at the Nigerian Air Force Base, Kainji, on Saturday, 6 December 2025.
In an official signed statement, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed that the aircraft developed an unexpected emergency shortly after take-off, prompting the pilots to take rapid and decisive action. Demonstrating remarkable composure, they manoeuvred the aircraft away from populated areas, ensuring no civilian casualties or ground impact risks, before successfully executing a safe ejection. The aircrew were immediately evacuated for routine medical evaluation and are currently stable.
Reacting to the incident, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, praised the pilots for their bravery, discipline and sound judgement, noting that their actions embodied the highest traditions of the Service. He described their swift decision-making as instrumental in preventing loss of life and safeguarding the surrounding communities.
Air Marshal Aneke further directed the immediate constitution of a Board of Inquiry to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the emergency. According to him, such inquiries are essential for maintaining accountability, strengthening operational procedures and ensuring continuous improvement in flight safety protocols across all NAF platforms.
Reassuring the public, the Nigerian Air Force reiterated its unwavering commitment to stringent safety standards, operational excellence and the welfare of its personnel. The Service affirmed that despite the inherent risks associated with military aviation, it remains dedicated to upholding its constitutional mandate to protect the lives and property of citizens while ensuring that its aircrew operate under the safest possible conditions.
The incident, though unfortunate, once again highlights the professionalism and readiness of NAF pilots whose training, discipline and dedication continue to reinforce the confidence of the Nigerian public in the nation’s air defence capabilities.
