A FT7-NI belonging to the Nigerian Air Force crashed in Makurdi, Benue state capital.

The cause of the crash could not be immediately ascertained as details of the incidents are still sketchy as of the time of filling this report.

Sources who confirmed the crash said two pilots onboard escaped unhurt.

NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore, Edward Gabkwet confirming the report said the FT-7NI is a trainer aircraft.

He said the aircraft crashed around 4.15pm while on routine training exercise.

He said “A Nigerian Air Force FT-7NI trainer aircraft crashed today, 14 July 2023 at about 4.15pm in Makurdi, Benue State, while on a routine training exercise. Luckily, the 2 pilots on board survived the crash after successfully ejecting from the aircraft. Additionally, there was no loss of lives or damage to any property around the area of impact.

“Both pilots are currently under observation at NAF Base Hospital, Makurdi. Meanwhile, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has constituted a Board of Inquiry to determine the immediate and remote causes of the crash”