CLAIM: Portugal Denies Nigerian Air Force Planned Visit

On December 10, 2025 a facebook user @DiliClassic made a claim that Portugal has said there were no records or requests of the Nigerian Air Force’s intent to visit. The post had images of Portugal and Nigeria President, and the Nigerian Air Force C-130 plane, with the caption, “BREAKING: Portugal Denies Nigerian Air Force Visit Rumors Portugal has dismissed claims of an impending Nigerian Air Force visit, confirming no request or record exists of such a trip.”

When this report was published, this claim had about 5,800 likes, comments and shares.

VERIFICATION

On December 8, 2025, A Nigerian Air Force C-130 transport aircraft made a precautionary landing in Burkina Faso while en route to Portugal due to a technical concern. The Nigerian Air Force said the aircraft was on a ferry mission to Portugal when it landed at the nearest suitable airfield after detecting an issue with the aircraft. 

Burkina Faso and its regional allies stated that the aircraft entered their airspace without authorisation. While the Nigerian Air Force made a clear statement that the landing was due to safety protocols, on their way to Portugal and that the crew was safe. 

There is no evidence from authoritative sources that Portugal issued a public denial of rumours about a Nigerian Air Force visit, or that it stated there was no request or record of such a trip.

CONCLUSION

The claim that the Portuguese government has denied that the Nigerian Air Force intended to visit Portugal is FALSE. There is no credible report or official statement to support the claim.