The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that its helicopter, which made a precautionary landing on farmland in Makurdi, Benue State, has returned safely to base after completing a security operation against suspected kidnappers.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Utur Tse-Igboji community in Makurdi, drawing the attention of residents who witnessed the aircraft landing.
According to the Air Force, the helicopter had been deployed to provide close air support to ground troops during an operation targeting suspected kidnappers in the Ogbadigbo area of Benue State, near the boundary with Enugu State.
The operation reportedly disrupted the activities of the suspected criminals and supported the movement of ground forces.
NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, explained that the pilot opted for a precautionary landing while returning to base after completing the mission.
The landing took place approximately 10 nautical miles from the airfield and was carried out in accordance with established operational and safety procedures, the Air Force said.
The military did not disclose further technical details about the circumstances that led to the landing.
The incident occurred days after a separate Nigerian Air Force aircraft crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, on October 5, resulting in widespread concern over military aviation safety. The two incidents are separate, and the Air Force confirmed that the helicopter involved in the Benue landing returned to base.
The NAF reiterated its commitment to supporting ground troops and protecting communities through coordinated air and ground operations against criminal groups.
It also maintained that its operations would continue to focus on restricting the activities of suspected criminals and supporting efforts to improve security in affected areas.
