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The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that one of its helicopters made a precautionary landing on a farmland in Makurdi, Benue State, after returning from an operation against suspected kidnappers.
The incident occurred on Wednesday at Utur Tse-Igboji community in Bar Council Ward, along Welfare Quarters to the Mopol 13 Ring Road in Makurdi.
In a statement, the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the helicopter had successfully provided close air support to ground troops during an operation targeting suspected kidnappers in the Ogbadigbo area of Benue State.
The operation was conducted near the Enugu-Benue boundary and reportedly disrupted the activities of the suspected criminals while supporting the advance of surface forces.
Ejodame said that after completing the mission, the pilot exercised professional discretion and made a precautionary landing about 10 nautical miles from the airfield while returning to base.
He explained that such landings were consistent with established operational and safety procedures, particularly following combat missions.
According to the NAF spokesperson, the helicopter subsequently returned to base, while the circumstances surrounding the landing did not affect the success of the operation.
The Air Force said it would continue to sustain pressure on criminal elements and provide close air support to ground forces conducting operations against kidnappers and other armed groups.
It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting communities through coordinated air and ground operations and supporting efforts to restore security in affected areas.
