By Lenon Itai Rwizi
The Nigerian Air Force says an aircraft was heading to Portugal but made an emergency landing in Burkina Faso due to technical issues.
The Nigerian Air Force has clarified the situation surrounding its aircraft that made an emergency landing in Burkina Faso. This follows allegations by the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) that the aircraft violated the country’s airspace.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, 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,” he said.
He disclosed that the crew detected a technical problem shortly after takeoff from Lagos, making an emergency landing necessary. “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,” Ejodame stated.
Earlier, the AES—comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic—had accused the aircraft, which was carrying 11 Nigerian personnel, of violating its airspace and claimed it was forced to land. The group also warned that any future violations could be “neutralised.”
However, Ejodame dismissed any wrongdoing, stressing that the crew is safe and well-treated. “The NAF crew is safe and have received cordial treatment from the host authorities,” he added.
He further assured that arrangements are in progress for the journey to continue. “Plans are ongoing to resume the mission as scheduled,” he said, while reaffirming the Air Force’s commitment to safety, professionalism, and strict compliance with aviation standards.
Lenon Itai Rwizi is a Registered Legal Practitioner of the Superior Courts of Zimbabwe, contactable at +263 774 159 146, +263 713 967 341, or [email protected].
Disclaimer: The above information does not constitute formal legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal advice, please consult the writer directly (via the contact details above or on Facebook) or an attorney of your choice.
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