The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed the safe departure and continued journey of its C-130 aircraft from Burkina Faso, putting to rest widespread speculation and misinformation that followed a precautionary landing in the country.
The aircraft was on a routine ferry flight from Lagos to Portugal for scheduled depot-level maintenance when it made an unscheduled stop at Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Shortly after the landing, misleading reports surfaced on social media, falsely claiming that the aircraft—carrying 11 NAF personnel—had been forced down for allegedly violating Burkinabe airspace.
Responding promptly to the reports, the Nigerian Air Force dismissed the claims as unfounded. The Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, clarified that shortly after departing Lagos on 8 December 2025, the aircrew detected a technical concern and, in line with international aviation safety protocols, elected to land at the nearest suitable airfield as a precautionary measure.
He emphasized that the decision was a standard safety procedure, posed no danger to the crew or the aircraft, and demonstrated the professionalism of the aircrew.
According to him, all personnel remained safe throughout and were treated cordially by the Burkinabe authorities during their stay.
Despite these clarifications, speculation intensified online, with conspiracy theories alleging detention of the crew on espionage-related grounds.
The situation was further fueled by reports of high-level diplomatic engagements involving Burkina Faso’s military leadership and a Nigerian delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Maitama Tuggar.
Providing a final update on Friday evening, Air Commodore Ejodame confirmed that the aircraft had since departed Burkina Faso and arrived safely in Accra, Ghana, in accordance with a revised flight plan.
He added that the aircraft would proceed to Portugal for its scheduled maintenance via Banjul and Casablanca.
The Nigerian Air Force expressed appreciation to members of the public for their concern and support, reassuring Nigerians that all personnel are safe, the aircraft remains serviceable, and the Service continues to uphold the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and operational discipline.
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