Nigerian C‑130 Still Held in Burkina Faso – 11 Air Force Crew Yet to Return

The Nigerian Air Force confirmed that its C‑130 transport Aircraft and the eleven military personnel on board remain detained in Burkina Faso after an emergency landing in Bobo‑Dioulasso. The aircraft, which was en route to Portugal for routine maintenance, was forced to land because of a technical fault, but Burkinabe authorities claim the Aircraft entered their airspace without clearance.

Nigerian officials say the crew followed standard safety procedures and that the landing was purely precautionary. They have handed the matter over to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is now pushing diplomatic talks to secure the release of both the aircraft and the soldiers.

Burkina Faso’s military government, part of the Sahel Confederation, has accused Nigeria of violating its sovereignty and is treating the incident as a breach of airspace. The junta has launched an investigation and warned that any further violations could trigger a forceful response.

Back in Nigeria, the Federal Government is keeping a close eye on the situation, insisting it will exhaust all diplomatic channels before considering any other options. The families of the detained officers are anxiously awaiting news, hoping for a swift resolution before the holiday season.