The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified reports surrounding the diversion of one of its C-130 aircraft to Burkina Faso, saying the landing was a precautionary safety measure taken in line with international aviation procedures.
NAF also confirmed that all personnel on board the aircraft—which landed in Bobo-Dioulasso—were safe and had received cordial treatment from Burkinabe authorities.
According to NAF, the aircraft was on a ferry mission to Portugal when the crew detected a technical concern shortly after takeoff from Lagos on December 8, 2025.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the crew diverted to the nearest available airfield in keeping with standard global safety protocols.
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 had on Monday night announced that a Nigerian Air Force aircraft carrying 11 soldiers was forced to land after allegedly violating the country’s airspace.
The information was published by the state-run Agence d’Information du Burkina, quoting a statement from the Confederation of Sahel States.