The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has revealed how one of its pilots survived an air crash after an attack by bandits on the boundaries of Zamfara and Kaduna State.
The Military authorities had denied viral media reports that an Alfa Jet belonging to the Nigeria Airforce (NAF) had crashed in Kaduna. NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, debunked the report but a recent development indicates that an Alpha Jet, which reportedly left Yola, Adamawa Capital, for anti-banditry operations, crashed in one of the villages in the State.
In a statement signed on Monday, July 19, 2021 by Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the pilot identified as Flight Lieutenant Abayomi Dairo survived after he successfully ejected from the aircraft.
“On 18 July 2021, at about 12.45 pm, a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Alpha Jet aircraft, returning from a successful air interdiction mission between the boundaries of Zamfara and Kaduna State, came under intense enemy fire which led to its crash in Zamfara State.
“Luckily, the gallant pilot of the aircraft, Flight Lieutenant Abayomi Dairo, successfully ejected from the aircraft.
“Using his survival instincts, the pilot, who came under intense ground fire from the bandits, was able to evade them and sought refuge in nearby settlements awaiting sunset,” the statement read in part.
The NAF assured that despite the setback of the crash, it remains committed to fulfilling President Muhammadu Buhari’s mandate as well as other constitutional roles assigned to it.
The willingness, readiness, and tested ability of the NAF remain unshaken and unwavering as it continues to carry out its assigned roles,” the NAF said.
