A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) helicopter has safely returned to its base after carrying out a precautionary landing about 10 nautical miles from its airfield following a combat support mission in Benue State.
The aircraft had been providing close air support to ground troops during an operation targeting suspected kidnappers in the Ogbadigbo area of Benue, close to the Enugu-Benue boundary, before the precautionary landing occurred.
The Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.
Ejodame explained that the landing was conducted in line with established aviation safety procedures following combat operations.
“The precautionary landing is in accordance with established operational and safety procedures following combat missions,” he said.
He added that the helicopter had since returned safely to base.
NAF continues operations against criminal groups
The Nigerian Air Force said the successful recovery of the aircraft demonstrates its continued commitment to supporting ground forces and protecting communities affected by insecurity.
Ejodame said the force would continue providing aerial support during security operations aimed at reducing the activities of criminal groups.
According to him, coordinated air and ground operations remain central to efforts to deny criminal elements freedom of movement and restore security in affected areas.
“The NAF remains committed to sustaining pressure on criminal elements, providing close air support to surface forces and protecting communities through coordinated air and ground operations,” he said.
Earlier reports of Benue helicopter emergency landing
The development follows earlier reports that another NAF helicopter made an emergency landing on Wednesday at a farm in Utur Tse-Igboji, Bar Council Ward, Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State.
The aircraft reportedly experienced a technical issue while carrying out a flight operation.
Authorities have not linked the two incidents, and the latest statement focused specifically on the helicopter involved in the precautionary landing after the counter-kidnap mission.
The Nigerian Air Force continues to conduct aerial surveillance, reconnaissance and close air support operations as part of broader security efforts across the country.
