The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has moved to clarify reports surrounding one of its transport aircraft that made an emergency landing in Burkina Faso, following days of rising tension and accusations from regional authorities. The situation, which initially sparked speculation about an airspace breach, has now been formally addressed by the Air Force, which insists the landing was strictly due to technical issues and fully in line with international aviation procedures.
The incident occurred on December 8, 2025, when a Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft departed Lagos on what military officials describe as a routine ferry mission to Portugal. According to NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the aircraft was scheduled to undergo maintenance and operational activities in Europe, a standard practice for military aviation units operating globally.
Shortly after takeoff, the crew reportedly detected a technical irregularity that required immediate attention. Although the nature of the issue was not disclosed, Ejodame explained that the crew did exactly what international aviation safety standards require — divert to the nearest suitable airport to carry out a precautionary landing.
“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,” the spokesperson said in a statement released on Tuesday.
The landing, however, quickly drew attention from the Confederation of Sahel States (AES). The bloc, which consists of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic, issued a strongly worded statement accusing the aircraft of unlawfully entering Burkinabe airspace. The AES claimed that the aircraft, which had 11 Nigerian military personnel on board, was “forced” to land by local authorities and warned that similar incidents in the future could be “neutralised.”
A Delicate Diplomatic Challenge Emerges Between Nigeria and Burkina Faso
The accusation prompted a wave of online debate and speculation, especially given the evolving diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and some Sahelian states over political and security differences. Analysts noted that the AES’ firm tone suggested deeper sensitivities around airspace sovereignty and military activity in the region.
But in its official communication, the Nigerian Air Force dismissed the allegations as incorrect and reaffirmed that the crew followed internationally accepted emergency procedures. Air Commodore Ejodame stressed that the diversion was not only necessary but unavoidable given the technical fault detected during the flight.
“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. “The NAF crew is safe and have received cordial treatment from the host authorities.”
The spokesperson also emphasised that at no point did the aircraft attempt to breach any nation’s sovereignty, nor did the landing involve any form of confrontation. Instead, Ejodame expressed appreciation for the cooperation extended by Burkina Faso’s aviation officials, noting that they acted professionally and in line with international norms.
He further stated that steps were already being taken to ensure the continuation of the aircraft’s journey once the technical issue is resolved. “Plans are ongoing to resume the mission as scheduled,” he noted, assuring the public that NAF remains committed to adhering to all safety procedures.
Aviation experts say emergency landings of this nature are not uncommon, particularly for large transport aircraft like the C-130, which often undertake long-distance missions. Under international aviation law, any aircraft facing mechanical issues is allowed — and expected — to land at the nearest suitable airport, regardless of national borders. Failure to do so can endanger both the crew and people on the ground.
The AES’ reaction, however, underscores broader geopolitical dynamics unfolding in West Africa. The bloc has taken a more assertive stance on security matters and airspace management since its formation. As such, even routine aviation incidents can quickly take on political significance.
Despite this, the Nigerian Air Force appears intent on preventing the situation from escalating. Its clarification aims to reassure the public, maintain regional stability, and ensure that the aircraft’s mission progresses with minimum disruption.
As of now, the crew remains in Burkina Faso pending clearance to continue their journey. NAF says they are receiving full support and that its technical team remains in close communication with Burkinabe authorities. The Air Force also reiterated that it upholds professionalism and strict compliance with aviation regulations—principles that it says guided every decision made by the crew during the emergency.
With repair and safety checks underway, the aircraft is expected to resume its flight to Portugal soon. For now, officials from both countries appear to be managing the matter calmly, even as international observers continue to watch developments closely given the wider regional context.
