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The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says its aircraft diverted into Burkina Faso airspace on December 8, 2025 as a precautionary measure occasioned by a “technical concern”.
On Monday, the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) said an aircraft carrying 11 Nigerian soldiers violated Burkina Faso airspace.
AES is a breakaway West African union made up of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger Republic.
In a statement signed by Ehimen Ejodame, director of public relations at NAF, the air force said the C-130 aircraft was on a ferry mission to Portugal.
“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 statement reads.
“NAF crew is safe and have received cordial treatment from the host authorities.”
NAF added that its mission to Portugal will proceed as scheduled.
“Plans are ongoing to resume the mission as scheduled,” the statement added.
“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.”
In the wake of the incident, AES authorised member states to “neutralise” any aircraft violating its airspace.
There were fears that the “forced landing” of the aircraft could spark a diplomatic row between Nigeria and AES.
