The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified that its C-130 aircraft, carrying two crew and nine personnel, made a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, on December 8, 2025, due to a technical issue during a ferry flight from Lagos to Portugal.
Spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame emphasized adherence to international aviation protocols, selecting the nearest safe airfield amid the concern, with the crew receiving cordial treatment from local authorities. This counters AES claims of unauthorized airspace entry, which prompted the diversion and heightened regional alert.
The Federal Government is probing the incident amid diplomatic tensions post-AES's ECOWAS exit, but NAF denied any grounding, noting arrangements for departure were underway before a last-minute hold. The explanation underscores routine safety over sovereignty breach narratives, with all aboard confirmed safe.
Burkina Faso's forces intercepted the flight, labeling it an "unfriendly act," yet NAF's response prioritizes transparency to de-escalate, awaiting clearance for resumption.