The Nigerian Air Pressure (NAF) has clarified experiences surrounding the diversion of one in every of its C-130 plane throughout a ferry mission to Portugal, confirming that the plane made a precautionary touchdown in Burkina Faso resulting from a technical difficulty detected shortly after takeoff from Lagos.
The clarification was contained in an announcement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Public Relations and Info, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
The incident occurred on December 8, 2025, throughout a routine non-combat ferry operation.
The reason follows claims on Monday by the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) that it had compelled a Nigerian Air Pressure plane carrying 11 Nigerian troopers to land for allegedly violating Burkina Faso’s airspace.
NAF response: security resolution in line with protocols
Dismissing the allegation, the Nigerian Air Pressure stated the diversion was solely a safety-driven resolution taken by the crew after figuring out a technical concern mid-flight.
“Following takeoff from Lagos, the crew noticed a technical concern which necessitated a precautionary touchdown in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, the closest airfield, in accordance with commonplace security procedures and worldwide aviation protocols,” the assertion stated.
NAF confused that the touchdown was not the results of any exterior compulsion or airspace violation.
Crew secure, cordial reception by host authorities
The Air Pressure confirmed that each one personnel on board are secure and have been acquired with out incident by Burkinabe authorities.
“NAF crew is secure and have acquired cordial therapy from the host authorities,” the assertion added.
Mission to Portugal to proceed
The Nigerian Air Pressure stated preparations have been underway to proceed the ferry mission to Portugal as initially deliberate.
“Plans are ongoing to renew the mission as scheduled,” the assertion stated.
It additional reassured the general public of its continued professionalism and adherence to worldwide aviation requirements.
“The Nigerian Air Pressure appreciates the assist acquired throughout this era and assures the general public that NAF stays professionally dedicated to strict compliance with operational procedures and security requirements, guaranteeing the safety of its personnel whereas fulfilling its constitutional mandate,” Ejodame said.
What you need to know
Burkinabè authorities had stated it instantly launched an investigation following the touchdown, and concluded that the Nigerian plane didn’t have authorization to fly over Burkina Faso.
- AES described the incident as a violation of nationwide sovereignty and worldwide aviation norms.
- This improvement has reignited tensions between Nigeria and the AES, a regional bloc shaped by Burkina Faso, Mali, and the Niger Republic after their withdrawal from the Financial Group of West African States (ECOWAS).
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