By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified reports regarding the diversion of one of its C-130 aircraft to Burkina Faso, stating that the precautionary landing was conducted in line with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols.
According to a statement on Tuesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the aircraft, which was on a ferry mission to Portugal, experienced a technical concern shortly after takeoff from Lagos on 8 December 2025. The crew subsequently diverted to the nearest airfield in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, to ensure the safety of personnel and the aircraft.
“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, the nearest airfield, in accordance with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols,” the statement read.
Ejodame added that all personnel on board are safe and receiving cordial treatment from Burkinabe authorities. Plans are currently underway to resume the mission as scheduled.
“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 statement concluded.
Earlier reports cited the Government of Burkina Faso claiming that a Nigerian Air Force aircraft carrying 11 soldiers was forced to land after allegedly violating Burkinabe airspace. The Agence d’Information du Burkina, the state-run news agency, published a statement from the Confederation of Sahel States outlining the incident.