The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has dismissed claims that one of its C-130 transport aircraft was grounded in Burkina Faso for violating the country’s airspace, insisting the landing was precautionary and carried out in full compliance with international aviation protocols.
TAT News had reported that the incident involved a NAF C-130 carrying 11 military personnel en route to Portugal. The aircraft was compelled to land in Bobo-Dioulasso, a development that triggered diplomatic ripples and strong condemnation from the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which described it as an affront to their collective sovereignty.
Breaking its silence on Tuesday, NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the diversion was necessitated by a “technical concern” detected shortly after takeoff from Lagos.
“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 said.
He confirmed that all 11 personnel onboard were safe and had been treated cordially by Burkinabe authorities.
“Plans are ongoing to resume the mission as scheduled,” he added.
The Air Force thanked Nigerians for their support and reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to professionalism, operational discipline, and strict adherence to safety standards.
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