A transport aircraft belonging to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has made a safe and scheduled stop in The Gambia while on a long-distance journey to Europe. The C-130 Hercules, which is heading to Portugal for planned depot-level maintenance, landed without incident in Banjul on Tuesday, 23 December 2025.
Flight Path and Official Confirmation
The Air Force officially confirmed the movement in a public statement. The aircraft's route was carefully planned, with stops in Accra, Ghana, and Banjul, The Gambia. Its next scheduled transit point is Casablanca in Morocco before it reaches its final destination in Portugal.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, who serves as the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, provided the details. He stated, "The Nigerian Air Force confirms that its C-130 aircraft, which earlier made a precautionary landing during a ferry flight, has successfully continued its journey and landed safely in Banjul, The Gambia." He further assured the nation that all crew members are safe and the aircraft is in good condition.
Adherence to Strict Safety Protocols
The NAF emphasised that this type of flight, known as a ferry flight, is conducted under strict, established aviation safety procedures. These long-distance transfers for maintenance are meticulously routed.
Ferry flights for aircraft programmed for maintenance are required to operate through designated airfields, with movements appropriately spaced for safety and operational efficiency. This careful planning ensures that the aircraft and crew have access to necessary support facilities along the route.
Gratitude and Reassurance to the Public
In its statement, the Service expressed appreciation for the international cooperation that facilitated the flight. The NAF thanked the host authorities in Ghana and The Gambia, as well as other nations whose airspace was used, for their support to the crew.
The statement also acknowledged the concern and goodwill shown by Nigerians. It concluded with a firm reassurance: "The Service reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of safety and professionalism in all operations." This incident highlights the routine but carefully managed nature of military logistics and international defence cooperation.
