The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has explained why one of its helicopters landed on a farmland in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, after reports of the incident sparked concern among residents.
According to the NAF, the helicopter had just completed an operation against suspected kidnappers in Ogbadigbo Local Government Area of Benue State, close to the Enugu-Benue boundary.
NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the aircraft provided close air support to ground troops during the operation, which disrupted the activities of the suspected criminals and supported the advance of surface forces.
Ejodame explained that while returning to base after the mission, the pilot exercised professional discretion to make a precautionary landing approximately 10 nautical miles from the airfield.
He stressed that the landing was carried out in line with established operational and safety procedures following combat missions.
The aircraft landed at Utur Tse-Igboji community in Bar Council Ward, along the Welfare Quarters–Mopol 13 Ring Road in Makurdi.
The Air Force subsequently confirmed that the helicopter had returned safely to base.
The development comes amid heightened attention on military aviation following the recent fatal crash involving a NAF ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State, which claimed the lives of 25 people on board.
The NAF said it remains committed to providing close air support to ground forces and sustaining operations against criminal elements in affected communities.
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