The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has explained why its NAF C – 130 military aircraft made a precautionary landing in Burkina Faso airfield on Monday, December 8, 2025.
Clarifying, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information,Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, in a statement on Tuesday, said the aircraft conveying some soldiers on ferry mission to Portugal suddenly developed technical issues after take off from Lagos and had to land in the nearest airfield – Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.
Commodore Ejodame added that the landing followed standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols, stressing that the NAF crew on board remains safe and have received cordial treatment from the host authorities.
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. 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.”
