The Nigerian Air Force has refuted reports that it’s aircraft a c-130 plane was forced to land and impounded by Burkina Faso government for alleged breach of it’s air space security.
A statement signed by Ehimen Ejodame an
Air Commodore and Director of Public Relations and Information,
Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force on Tuesday, said contrary to the reports, “the diversion of a NAF C-130 aircraft during its ferry mission to Portugal on 8 December 2025, following takeoff from Lagos, is because “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”.
The statement while acknowledging that the NAF crew is safe and have received cordial treatment from the host authorities, said plans are ongoing to resume the mission as scheduled.
Read full statement…
“SAFE PRECAUTIONARY LANDING OF NAF C-130 AIRCRAFT IN BURKINA FASO
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.
Ehimen Ejodame
Air Commodore
Director of Public Relations and Information,
Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force
9 December 2025″
