Burkina Faso releases detained 11 Nigerian air force personnel after military aircraft makes emergency landing

Burkina Faso has released 11 Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel following intensive diplomatic efforts by the Nigerian government, marking a successful resolution to a tense incident in West Africa.

The release came after a high-level Nigerian delegation, led by Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, engaged Burkinabè authorities, including President Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

The talks, held in Ouagadougou, focused on easing tensions and resolving the matter through constructive dialogue.

Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed the development shortly after the delegation concluded its meetings, according to Gistreel.

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“The release of the Nigerian Air Force personnel reflects the success of constructive dialogue and Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful engagement with its neighbours,” he said.

The Nigerian team included senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence, and Nigerian Air Force Headquarters.

Their mission was to clarify issues surrounding the detention, prevent further escalation, and reinforce Nigeria’s respect for international aviation and military norms.

A senior source familiar with the mission described the visit as a confidence-building exercise aimed at strengthening trust and reaffirming shared responsibilities in addressing security challenges in the Sahel region.

Officials on both sides expressed optimism that the resolution would deepen cooperation between Nigeria and Burkina Faso, reinforcing dialogue, regional security collaboration, and adherence to international standards.

Prior to the release, the Nigerian government dismissed online claims that a Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft had been forced to land in Burkina Faso over alleged spying activities.

Authorities described such reports as false and misleading, emphasizing that the detained personnel were not involved in intelligence operations but were conducting routine, internationally compliant missions.

The successful resolution is expected to enhance trust, promote peace, and boost collective efforts for stability and security across West Africa.

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