The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has disclosed that one of its combat helicopters made a precautionary landing on Wednesday after successfully conducting a close air support mission against suspected bandits in Ogbadigbo, Benue State, near the Enugu–Benue boundary.

The helicopter provided air support to ground troops during the operation, disrupting the activities of the suspected criminals and enabling the advance of the surface forces.

According to the NAF, the pilot, while returning to base after completing the mission, exercised professional discretion and made a precautionary landing about 10 nautical miles from the airfield.

The helicopter later returned safely to base.The Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement.

Ejodame said the precautionary landing was carried out in line with established operational and safety procedures following combat missions.

The NAF spokesman said the operation was part of the service’s sustained efforts to deny criminal elements freedom of action while supporting ground troops conducting operations against kidnappers and other armed groups.

He added that the successful mission demonstrated the NAF’s commitment to coordinated air and ground operations aimed at protecting vulnerable communities.

“The Nigerian Air 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,” Ejodame said.