The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has offered fresh clarification on the diversion of its C-130 aircraft to Burkina Faso, insisting the development was purely a safety precaution carried out in line with global aviation standards.
NAF said its personnel aboard the aircraft, which landed in Bobo-Dioulasso on Monday, were safe and were being accorded due courtesies by Burkinabe authorities.
The aircraft was on a ferry mission to Portugal when the crew reportedly detected a technical issue shortly after departing Lagos on December 8, prompting an immediate diversion to the nearest available airfield.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, explained that the crew acted professionally by prioritising safety and adhering strictly to established international aviation procedures.
Ejodame added that efforts were already in motion to ensure the continuation of the mission as planned, stressing that the Air Force maintains an unwavering commitment to operational discipline and safety compliance.
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 development came hours after reports emerged that Burkinabe authorities claimed the aircraft, with 11 Nigerian military personnel onboard, had violated the country’s airspace before being compelled to land.
According to a report by the Agence d’Information du Burkina, the country’s state news agency published a statement issued by the Confederation of Sahel States on the incident.