The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Tuesday, has commented on its NAF C-130 aircraft which was reportedly forced to land in Burkina Faso.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, explained the mission of the aircraft, how it came to land in Burkina Faso and assured of the safety of the crew.
Ejodame’s statement entitled “SAFE PRECAUTIONARY LANDING OF NAF C-130 AIRCRAFT IN BURKINA FASO”, reads:
“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.”
The statement comes after reports of a Nigerian fighter Air force jet in Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, was forced to land and the 11 military officers onboard detained.
In a communique released by the Confederation of the states of the Sahel(AES) and signed by Army General Assimi Goita, the Head of state of Mali and president of the AES, the ‘unfriendly act’ was in violation of international and military laws.
According to the communique, the Nigerian Aircraft had no authorization to fly within the Burkinabe airspace. They also said measures will be put in place to neutralise any aircraft that violates Confederation airspace.
