The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified reports surrounding the diversion of one of its C-130 aircraft to Burkina Faso, stressing that the move was a precautionary measure carried out in line with standard safety and international aviation protocols.
NAF confirmed that all personnel on board the aircraft, which landed in Bobo-Dioulasso, are safe and receiving cordial treatment from Burkinabe authorities.
The aircraft, on a ferry mission to Portugal, made the precautionary landing after the crew detected a technical issue shortly after takeoff from Lagos on December 8, 2025.
In a statement on Tuesday, Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the crew diverted to the nearest airfield in strict adherence to safety procedures and international aviation standards.
Ejodame added that plans are underway to resume the mission as scheduled, reaffirming the Air Force’s commitment to operational excellence and rigorous safety standards.
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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.
“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.”
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.
