The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified that its C-130 aircraft, which made an emergency landing in Burkina Faso, was on a ferry mission to Portugal and diverted due to technical issues, dismissing claims by the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) that it violated the country’s airspace.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 9, the Air Force spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, explained that the aircraft was on a routine ferry mission to Europe.
“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,” Ejodame said.
Ejodame said the crew detected a technical problem shortly after takeoff from Lagos, necessitating a precautionary landing at Bobo-Dioulasso, the nearest airfield, in line with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols.
AES, comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, had earlier claimed that the aircraft, carrying 11 Nigerian personnel, violated its airspace and was forced to land.
The group warned that any future violations could be neutralized.
Ejodame dismissed claims of wrongdoing, assuring that the crew is safe and has received cordial treatment from the host authorities.
“NAF crew is safe and have received cordial treatment from the host authorities,” he said.
He added that arrangements are underway to continue the mission as planned, emphasizing that the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to operational safety, professionalism, and strict compliance with aviation standards.
Comments