Two aircrafts of the Nigeria Air Force involved in manoeuvres preparatory to the October 1 celebrations have crashed in Abuja, but there are no casualties, spokesman for the Force has said.
Said Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, an
Air Commodore, and the Air Force Director of Public Relations and Information: “I wish to confirm an air incident involving 2 Nigerian Air Force aircraft taking part in the rehearsals for the 58th Independence Day Celebrations.
“Thankfully no lives were lost. Details will be communicated later.”
Shortly after, new information emerged that one of the pilots died.
A situation report confirmed that it was a head-on collision between two F7 Ni fighter jets. Two of the pilots were able to eject while the third pilot was unable to eject.
He is said to be a Squadron Leader, while those that ejected was another Squadron Leader and a Flight Lieutenant.
The Air Force spokesman in another statement acknowledged the death.
“It is with a heavy heart that I regretfully announce that one of the pilots who successfully ejected from one of the F-7Ni aircraft that crashed earlier today has passed on. May his soul RIP. Additional details on the incident will be communicated later. Thank you.”