The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has addressed reports about one of its C-130 aircraft being diverted to Burkina Faso, emphasizing that the move was a precautionary measure carried out strictly in line with standard safety and international aviation procedures.
According to NAF, personnel aboard the aircraft that landed in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, are safe and have been receiving cordial treatment from the Burkinabe authorities.
The aircraft, which was en route to Portugal on a ferry mission, made the precautionary landing after the crew identified a technical issue shortly after taking off from Lagos on 8 December 2025.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, explained that the crew diverted to the nearest airfield following standard safety protocols and international aviation guidelines.
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Ejodame added that plans were in motion to resume the mission as scheduled, reiterating the Air Force’s commitment to operational and safety standards.
“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.
“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.”
Earlier reports had indicated that the Government of Burkina Faso stated that a Nigerian Air Force aircraft carrying 11 soldiers was forced to land after allegedly violating its airspace. The Agence d’Information du Burkina, the state-run news agency, cited a statement from the Confederation of Sahel States regarding the incident.