The Nigerian Air Force has clarified that its C-130 transport aircraft made a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, on Monday after the crew detected a technical concern shortly after takeoff from Lagos.

NAF spokesman Ehimen Ejodame disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

Mr Ejodame said the aircraft was on a ferry mission to Portugal for scheduled maintenance when the crew diverted in line with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols.

He said the aircrew landed safely and had since received cordial support from Burkinabe authorities, adding that plans were ongoing to resume the mission once technical checks were completed.

An official statement by the Burkina Faso military junta cited airspace violation.

Mr Ejodame reassured the public that the NAF remained committed to strict compliance with operational and safety standards while ensuring the protection of its personnel in the discharge of its constitutional duties.

(NAN)