The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) C-130 aircraft recently released by authorities in Burkina Faso has arrived safely in Accra, Ghana, and will continue its journey to Portugal for scheduled depot maintenance.
NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed in a statement on Friday that the aircraft departed Bobo-Dioulasso airfield in Burkina Faso on Friday evening and landed in Accra in line with an updated flight plan.
According to him, the stopover in Ghana is part of preparations for the aircraft’s onward movement to Portugal via Banjul and Casablanca.
“The Nigerian Air Force is pleased to confirm that its C-130 aircraft, which made a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, has departed and arrived safely in Accra in line with the updated flight plan,” Ejodame said.
He assured Nigerians that all personnel on board remain safe, the aircraft is fully serviceable, and the NAF continues to uphold the highest standards of safety and professionalism.
The aircraft had made a precautionary landing in Burkina Faso on December 8 while en route from Lagos to Portugal after the crew detected a technical issue mid-flight. Ejodame explained that Bobo-Dioulasso was the nearest available airfield at the time and that the diversion was carried out in line with international aviation safety protocols.
Following the landing, diplomatic concerns arose after Burkina Faso described the incident as an unfriendly act. However, Nigerian authorities clarified that the flight was a routine maintenance movement fully covered by the necessary documentation.
Amid online speculation and allegations of espionage, credible sources at NAF Headquarters dismissed the claims as false and misleading, insisting that the aircraft was neither intercepted nor forced to land, and that the crew consisted solely of standard aircrew and mission-support personnel.
The issue was resolved after diplomatic engagement led by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, who met with Burkina Faso’s military leader. The talks resulted in the amicable release of the aircraft and crew.
President Bola Tinubu was briefed on the development, officials said, adding that the resolution underscored the importance of dialogue and adherence to international aviation and diplomatic norms.
The NAF has reiterated its commitment to transparency, operational safety, and regional cooperation as the aircraft resumes its scheduled mission.
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2025-12-1