Why helicopter made emergency landing in Benue ― NAF

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that its helicopter returned to base after a successful precautionary landing in Benue State.

The NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, October 8, 2026.

The helicopter made an emergency landing on a farm in Utur Tse-Igboji in the Bar Council Ward of Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, on Wednesday after a technical fault during a flight operation.

Ejodame, however, said the helicopter 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, before the incident.

Ejodame stated: “The precautionary landing is in accordance with established operational and safety procedures following combat missions.

Another NAF helicopter makes emergency landing in Benue

“The ​‌⁠⁠‌‍⁠⁠‍​‌​⁠‍⁠​‌‌​helicopter has since returned to base.

“The Force remains committed to sustaining pressure on criminal elements, providing close air support to surface forces and protecting communities through coordinated air and ground operations.

“The successful outcome underscores the NAF’s continued resolve to deny criminal elements freedom of action and support efforts to restore safety and security to affected communities.”