The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified the circumstances surrounding the landing of its C-130 aircraft at Bobo-Dioulasso airfield in Burkina Faso.
In a statement on Tuesday, NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the aircraft, which was on a ferry mission to Portugal on December 8, developed a technical problem shortly after taking off from Lagos.
To ensure safety, the crew made a precautionary landing at the nearest airfield in Bobo-Dioulasso.
The NAF statement dismissed reports suggesting that Burkina Faso’s military authorities seized the aircraft and 11 Nigerian personnel over an airspace violation.
It emphasised that the landing was carried out “in accordance with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols.”
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The statement read, “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.”
The statement reveals that the NAF crew are safe and that they received cordial treatment from the host authorities.
“Plans are ongoing to resume the mission as scheduled,” it said.
The NAF appreciated the support it received during the period, and assured 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.”
