The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that one of its C-130 Hercules aircraft made a safe precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, after the crew detected a technical concern shortly after takeoff from Lagos during a ferry mission to Portugal on 8 December 2025.
In a statement issued by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF said the diversion was carried out strictly in line with international aviation safety standards and standard operating procedures.
According to the statement, immediately after takeoff, the crew observed an issue that required an immediate precautionary action. Bobo-Dioulasso, being the closest suitable airfield, was selected for landing to ensure crew safety and protect the aircraft.
The Nigerian Air Force confirmed that all crew members onboard are safe and received cordial treatment from Burkinabe aviation and security authorities upon landing.
NAF expressed appreciation to the host country for its cooperation and support during the process, describing the coordination as a demonstration of strong regional ties.
Eyewitness reports and internal updates indicate that the landing was orderly, with no safety breaches recorded, reaffirming the professionalism of NAF pilots operating one of the military’s most reliable transport aircraft.
NAF said plans are underway to resume the ferry mission to Portugal as soon as technical assessments are completed. While the specifics of the technical concern were not disclosed, officials stated that such occurrences are common in global aviation and that the precautionary landing was a proactive safety measure.
The Air Force emphasized that maintenance teams and mission planners are working to ensure the aircraft returns to service promptly without compromising safety standards.
Reaffirming its dedication to protecting personnel and assets, NAF assured Nigerians that it remains professionally committed to strict safety protocols, routine checks, and global aviation best practices.
The statement further stressed that the service will continue to prioritize crew safety, operational efficiency, and responsible risk management as it executes local and international missions.
“The Nigerian Air Force remains fully committed to maintaining operational readiness while ensuring the highest safety standards in all missions,” the statement concluded.
