By Atoyebi Nike
The Nigerian Air Force has addressed reports on the diversion of its C-130 aircraft to Burkina Faso, stating that the crew acted strictly in line with aviation safety procedures. The aircraft, on a ferry mission to Portugal, landed in Bobo-Dioulasso after the crew detected a technical concern shortly after departing Lagos on 8 December 2025.
Air Force spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the crew chose the nearest airfield as required under international safety protocols. All personnel on board are safe and are receiving courteous treatment from Burkinabe authorities.
Ejodame noted that arrangements are in progress to resume the flight as planned. He added that the Air Force remains committed to operational discipline and strict safety standards.
Burkina Faso’s government earlier reported that a Nigerian aircraft carrying 11 soldiers landed in its territory after allegedly violating its airspace, according to the Agence d’Information du Burkina, which cited a statement from the Confederation of Sahel States.
