The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified reports involving its C-130 aircraft diversion during a routine ferry mission, emphasizing that the incident was handled as a standard safety measure with no harm to the crew.
According to a statement by NAF, the aircraft departed from Lagos on 8 December 2025 en route to Portugal when 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 confirmed that the “crew is safe and have received cordial treatment from the host authorities.”
Efforts are underway to resolve the issue, with “plans ongoing to resume the mission as scheduled.”
The NAF expressed gratitude for the assistance provided and reiterated its dedication to safety, stating that it “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 reads in full:
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.
