Burkina Faso Releases Nigerian Air Force Aircraft, 11 Personnel

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

A Nigerian delegation, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, held diplomatic engagements with Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, regarding a Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft carrying 11 personnel that had been detained in the country.

The engagements resulted in the immediate release of the 11 personnel and the aircraft.

Minister Tuggar subsequently met with the freed Air Force members to confirm their well-being.

The delegation and personnel are now en route back to Nigeria.

Nigeria emphasised its adherence to international aviation protocols, expressed respect for Burkina Faso’s sovereignty, and distanced itself from any unsubstantiated claims of maltreatment.

Both sides highlighted shared security challenges and the importance of fraternal relations.

This resolution underscores successful diplomacy in de-escalating a potential regional dispute.

The military aircraft made an emergency landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, on December 8, 2025, due to a technical issue.

Burkina Faso authorities detained the personnel and seized the aircraft, citing alleged unauthorised entry into their airspace.