- Says the NAF Transport Hercules en route Portugal made “safe precautionary landing” over “technical concerns”
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) wishes to clarify reports regarding the diversion of a NAF C-130 aircraft during its ferry mission to Portugal on 8 December 2025.
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.
NAF crew is safe and have received cordial treatment from the host authorities.
Plans are ongoing to resume the mission as scheduled.
The Nigerian Air Force appreciates the support received during this period and assures the public that NAF remains professionally committed to strict compliance with operational procedures and safety standards, ensuring the protection of its personnel while fulfilling its constitutional mandate.
Article 25 of the Chicago Convention (1944)
This article requires countries to permit aircraft in distress to land and to provide assistance.
This is one condition military aircraft are allowed to enter foreign airspace without permission, emergency situations override because:
• The priority is saving lives
• The aircraft is not entering for operational or hostile reasons
• It is considered a force majeure situation.”
Ehimen Ejodame
Air Commodore
Director of Public Relations and Information,
Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force.
9 December 2025
