Two Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Alpha Jet pilots narrowly escaped death on Saturday after safely ejecting from their aircraft following an in-flight emergency during a post-inspection functional check flight at the NAF Base in Kainji, Niger State.

The pilots were said to have expertly manoeuvred the jet away from populated areas before ejecting, a decision that prevented civilian casualties.

NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, who confirmed the incident in a statement on Saturday, said the aircraft developed an emergency shortly after take-off, prompting the pilots to act swiftly and with remarkable composure.

“They expertly manoeuvred the aircraft away from populated areas before executing a safe ejection,” he said.

Ejodame revealed that the crew is currently undergoing routine medical evaluation at a NAF health facility. 

He said the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, 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,” he said. 

Ejodame reassures the public of NAF’s 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,” he said.