The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commended two Alpha Jet pilots for their bravery and professional conduct after safely ejecting from their aircraft following an in-flight emergency during a post-inspection functional check flight at the Nigerian Air Force Base, Kainji, on Saturday.
According to NAF, the incident occurred shortly after take-off on 6 December 2025, when the aircraft developed a critical fault. The pilots were reported to have manoeuvred the aircraft away from populated areas before carrying out a safe ejection. NAF authorities confirmed that both aircrew members are undergoing routine medical evaluation.
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, praised the pilots for their “courage, discipline and sound judgement,” noting that their actions prevented possible casualties. He also ordered the immediate constitution of a Board of Inquiry to determine the cause of the incident.
The Air Force also acknowledged what it described as a highly coordinated emergency response involving Search and Rescue teams, Fire and Crash Response units and medical personnel, who swiftly secured the crash location and provided assistance to the pilots.
NAF said the incident highlights the risks military aviation professionals face daily in the course of duty. It added that air operations often involve complex missions and increased flying activities, requiring high alertness and readiness from personnel.
“The courage and devotion of NAF personnel who operate in high-risk environments to secure the nation deserves utmost honour and respect,” the statement said.
The Nigerian Air Force assured the public of its commitment to operational safety, and stated that it remains focused on protecting the lives and property of Nigerians in line with its constitutional responsibilities.
 has commended two Alpha Jet pilots for their bravery and professional conduct after safely ejecting from their aircraft following an in-flight emergency during a post-inspection functional check flight at the Nigerian Air Force Base, Kainji, on Saturday.){kind=link}