By Nkechi Eze
A Nigerian Air Force C-130 transport aircraft has landed safely in Banjul, The Gambia, after earlier making a precautionary landing during a ferry flight en route to Portugal for scheduled depot maintenance.
In an official signed statement, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed that the aircraft successfully continued its journey after transiting Accra in line with an updated flight plan. He explained that the aircraft is routing through Casablanca to Portugal, where it is programmed to undergo routine depot-level maintenance.
According to the statement, ferry flights for aircraft scheduled for maintenance are conducted strictly through designated airfields, with movements appropriately spaced and coordinated in line with established aviation safety procedures. Air Commodore Ejodame stressed that the process followed in this instance was in full compliance with international aviation standards.
He further assured that all personnel onboard the aircraft are safe and that the C-130 remains fully serviceable. “All personnel are safe, and the aircraft remains serviceable,” the NAF spokesperson stated, underscoring that there was no compromise to safety at any stage of the operation.
The Nigerian Air Force also expressed appreciation to the host authorities in Ghana, The Gambia, and other countries overflown for the cooperation and support extended to the crew throughout the flight. The Service equally acknowledged the concern, goodwill, and interest shown by Nigerians following reports of the precautionary landing.
Reaffirming its operational standards, the Nigerian Air Force reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to the highest levels of safety, professionalism, and operational excellence in all its activities, both at home and abroad.
