The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has narrated how one of its pilots survived after gunmen opened fire on a NAF Alpha Jet aircraft, resulting in its crash in Zamfara State.
The aircraft, according to NAF, was returning from a successful air interdiction mission between the boundaries of Zamfara and Kaduna State, when it was attacked by bandits.
A statement on Monday, by Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet said, the pilot identified as Flight Lieutenant Abayomi Dairo survived after he successfully ejected from the aircraft.
The statement reads: “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 pilot, NAF further stated, was able to elude several bandits’ strongholds by using the cover of darkness and his phone set for navigation and maneuvered his way to a Nigerian Army Unit, where he was finally rescued.
The NAF pledged its commitment to fulfilling President Muhammadu Buhari’s mandate as well as other constitutional roles assigned to it despite the setback of the crash.
“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.
The statement added: “It is instructive to note that upon receipt of the news of the crash, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao, had directed that all efforts must be emplaced to rescue the pilot. Accordingly, NAF Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms and helicopter gunships provided close air support to NAF Special Forces and Nigerian Army troops who were able to locate the crash site and the pilot’s parachute, while also combing nearby locations for any sign of the pilot.
” It is gladdening to note that while in hiding, Flight Lieutenant Dairo confirmed that the presence of NAF aircraft within the vicinity of the crash site helped in scaring the bandits who were after him, thus enabling him to find refuge and escape to a safe location.”