The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has finally addressed reports about its C-130 aircraft that made an unexpected landing in Burkina Faso, assuring Nigerians that all personnel are safe and the mission will continue.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Force’s spokesperson, clarified the situation on Tuesday morning, explaining that the emergency landing was purely due to technical issues, not a violation of airspace.
“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,” Ejodame said.
“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 clarification comes after the Confederation of Sahel States (AES), comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, accused the aircraft of breaching their airspace. AES, set up after ECOWAS suspended the three nations for toppling democratic governments, claimed the Nigerian plane was forced to land in Bobo-Dioulasso on Monday.
“The Confederation of the Sahel States most strongly condemns this violation of its airspace and the sovereignty of its member states.
Faced with this unfriendly act carried out in defiance of international law and international civil and/or military aviation rules, arrangements are made to guarantee the security of the Confederal airspace.
In this regard, and on the instructions of the Heads of State, the Arian and anti-aircraft defences of the Confederal space put on maximum alert, in accordance with the Declaration of the College of Heads of State dated December 22, 2024, were authorised to neutralise any aircraft that would violate the confederal space,” the AES statement read.
Despite the tense accusations, Ejodame noted that the mission was purely precautionary and that the Nigerian crew will soon continue its journey to Portugal.
