The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified reports surrounding the diversion of one of its aircraft (C-130 aircraft) to Burkina Faso, asserting that the action was a precautionary measure taken in strict accordance with standard safety and international aviation protocols
NAF also said personnel on board aircraft that landed in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, are safe and receiving cordial treatment from Burkinabe authorities.
The aircraft, which was on a ferry mission to Portugal, made a precautionary landing after the crew detected a technical concern shortly after takeoff from Lagos on 8 December 2025.
According to a statement on Tuesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the crew diverted to the nearest airfield in line with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols.
Ejodame said plans were underway to resume the mission as scheduled, adding that the Air Force remained committed to strict operational and safety standards.
The statement read, “The Nigerian Air Force 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. The NAF crew is safe and has received cordial treatment from the host authorities.
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“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.”
It was earlier reported that the Government of Burkina Faso said a Nigerian Air Force aircraft carrying 11 soldiers was forced to land in the country on Monday after reportedly violating its airspace.
The Agence d’Information du Burkina reported the development, the state-run news agency, which published a statement from the Confederation of Sahel States.
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