A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) helicopter was forced to execute a precautionary landing in Makurdi, Benue State, while returning from a successful military operation against suspected kidnappers.
The aircraft landed on farmland in the Utur Tse-Igboji community on Wednesday night following a combat mission along the Enugu-Benue border.
In a statement released Wednesday, NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the helicopter provided close air support to ground troops in the Ogbadigbo area of Benue State.
“The helicopter had successfully provided close air support to surface forces during an operation targeting suspected kidnappers in the Ogbadigbo area of Benue State, near the Enugu-Benue boundary,” Air Commodore Ejodame said. “The operation disrupted the activities of the criminal elements and supported the advance of surface forces.”
After the engagement, the pilot made a precautionary landing about 10 nautical miles short of the airfield, in line with standard aviation safety protocols.
The air force confirmed that the aircraft and its crew have since returned safely to base.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to continuing joint air and ground operations to secure the region, denying criminal groups freedom of movement along state borders.
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