The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified the circumstances surrounding the precautionary landing of one of its C-130 aircraft at the Bobo-Dioulasso airfield in Burkina Faso.

In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja, NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame explained that the aircraft was on a ferry mission to Portugal on December 8 when it developed a technical issue shortly after departing Lagos.

According to Ejodame, the flight crew opted for a precautionary landing at the nearest available airfield—Bobo-Dioulasso—in line with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols.

The clarification follows reports circulated in some media outlets alleging that Burkina Faso’s military authorities had seized the aircraft along with 11 Nigerian personnel for violating its airspace. NAF dismissed the claims as false.

“Following takeoff from Lagos, the crew observed a technical concern which necessitated a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, the nearest airfield,” the statement said.

Aircraft, Crew Safe

NAF confirmed that the aircraft crew are safe and were treated with courtesy by Burkinabe authorities. The force added that plans are already underway for the mission to continue as scheduled once the aircraft is cleared.

NAF also expressed appreciation for the cooperation received during the stopover, reassuring Nigerians that it remains committed to adhering strictly to operational procedures and safety standards in all its missions.

“The Nigerian Air Force remains professionally committed to the safety of its personnel and the fulfilment of its constitutional mandate,” the statement added.