A Nigerian Air Force helicopter has safely returned to base after making a precautionary landing in Makurdi, Benue State, following an operation against suspected kidnappers.
The aircraft landed on a farmland in Utur Tse-Igboji community, Bar Council Ward, around the Welfare Quarters–Mopol 13 Ring Road area of Makurdi on Wednesday night.
The Nigerian Air Force said the helicopter was involved in an operation around Ogbadigbo, close to the Enugu-Benue boundary, where it provided aerial support to troops confronting suspected kidnappers.
According to the NAF, the operation disrupted the activities of the suspected criminals and assisted ground forces in advancing against them.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the force explained that the pilot opted to land the aircraft as a safety measure while returning from the mission.
The statement read in parts, “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. The operation disrupted the activities of the criminal elements and supported the advance of surface forces.
“Following the successful completion of the mission, the pilot, on return to base, exercised his professional discretion to execute a precautionary landing approximately 10 nautical miles from the airfield.
The NAF said the landing was not presented as a crash and was carried out in accordance with standard procedures for ensuring flight safety after combat missions.
“This is in accordance with established operational and safety procedures following combat missions. The helicopter has returned to base.
The force also reaffirmed its ongoing air support for ground troops and its operations against criminal groups in affected communities.
“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.
“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.”
The helicopter has since been moved from the farmland and returned to its base, according to the Air Force.