The Nigerian Air Force on Saturday confirmed that one of its Alpha Jets crashed during a post-inspection functional check flight at the Kainji Air Base in Niger State, following an emergency that occurred moments after take-off.
The force reported no casualties as the two pilots on board ejected promptly before the crash.
A video obtained by NEWSNGR showed the aircraft consumed by flames with debris covering the crash site.
NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the jet experienced an unexpected malfunction that forced the pilots to make a quick decision before the aircraft crashed.
He wrote, “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 explained that the emergency developed immediately after take-off, noting that the pilots responded with controlled precision.
“Shortly after take-off, the aircraft developed an emergency, prompting the pilots to act swiftly and with remarkable composure,” he said.
According to him, the pilots diverted the aircraft away from civilian locations before ejecting.
He continued, “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, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, commended the pilots for preventing fatalities and minimising risk to the public.
He also ordered the immediate establishment of a Board of Inquiry to determine the cause of the incident.
Aneke reassured Nigerians of the force’s commitment to safety and operational efficiency, stressing that the NAF will continue to enforce strict standards while protecting its personnel and the general public in line with its constitutional responsibilities.
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