The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says its C-130!aircraft that landed in Burkina Faso on Monday night did so for safety reasons.
The NAF also stated that the landing was “in accordance with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols.”
Spokesperson of NAF, Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, stated this on Tuesday in a statement.
According to him, the crew of the NAF C-130 aircraft “observed a technical concern which necessitated a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, the nearest airfield.
Burkina Faso and its two allies in the AES had accused the Nigerian aircraft of violating Burkina Faso’s airspace.
Commodore Ejodame, said the “NAF crew is safe and have received cordial treatment from the host authorities.”
He said the crew will soon continue with its original mission to Portugal.
The full text of NAF statement : “The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) wishes to clarify reports regarding the diversion of a NAF C-130 aircraft during its ferry mission to Portugal on 8 December 2025.
“Following takeoff from Lagos, the crew observed a technical concern which necessitated a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, the nearest airfield, in accordance with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols.
“NAF crew is safe and have received cordial treatment from the host authorities.
“Plans are ongoing to resume the mission as scheduled.
“The Nigerian Air Force appreciates the support received during this period and assures the public that NAF remains professionally committed to strict compliance with operational procedures and safety standards, ensuring the protection of its personnel while fulfilling its constitutional mandate.
Ehimen Ejodame
Air Commodore
Director of Public Relations and Information,
Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force
9 December 2025.”
(vitalnewsngr.com)
