By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Correspondent
THE NIGERIAN Air Force (NAF) has provided clarifications regarding the diversion of a C-130 aircraft during its ferry mission to Portugal on 8 December 2025.
Following takeoff from Lagos, the crew identified a technical concern that necessitated a precautionary landing at Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, the nearest suitable airfield.
An official statement signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, on 9 December 2025 confirmed that the crew is safe and received cordial treatment from host authorities.
The statement emphasised that the landing was conducted in strict compliance with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols.
Plans remain ongoing to resume the mission to Portugal as scheduled, the statement noted. The Nigerian Air Force expressed appreciation for the support received during the incident and reaffirmed its commitment to operational discipline and safety standards.
Air Commodore Ejodame highlighted that the NAF prioritises the protection of its personnel while fulfilling its constitutional mandate.
He also explained that the precautionary landing reflected standard aviation safety practice, undertaken to safeguard both crew and equipment.
He explained further that the technical concern arose shortly after departure from Lagos, prompting the selection of Bobo-Dioulasso for a secure and controlled landing with the NAF also confirming that the deviation from the planned route did not result in any injuries or security issues.
Officials stated that the aircrew followed established protocols for managing in-flight technical concerns.
The statement described the reception in Burkina Faso as cordial, noting that local authorities provided support to the crew during their stay adding that preparations to resume the ferry mission to Portugal are underway, with all operational and safety procedures maintained.
NAF also emphasised that adherence to international aviation regulations remains central to its operations.
Its statement also reaffirmed that public confidence and transparency are integral to the NAF’s communication strategy and that was how the precautionary landing was handled professionally, with no compromise to personnel safety or mission objectives.
Officials acknowledged the support of international partners during the diversion noting that the NAF continues to conduct missions in accordance with legal and procedural standards, ensuring professional conduct at all times.
Air Commodore Ejodame reiterated that all personnel involved acted in compliance with safety procedures and that the landing was a precautionary measure rather than a response to an emergency caused by operational failure, the statement clarified.
NAF concluded by affirming its dedication to fulfilling its constitutional mandate while upholding professional standards in all operations.
