The Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed it is probing the circumstances surrounding the detention of a Nigerian Air Force C-130 military aircraft in Burkina Faso after the jet made an emergency landing in the commercial city of Bobo-Dioulasso.
The aircraft, which was reportedly flying through Burkinabe airspace on Monday, was said to have allegedly violated the country’s airspace, prompting local authorities to detain it upon landing. On board the military plane were 11 persons, including two crew members and nine Nigerian soldiers.
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed that the government is closely monitoring the situation and engaging relevant authorities to establish the facts surrounding the incident. He said Nigeria would issue a formal statement once full details are made available.
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“We are monitoring the situation and will issue a statement when we receive adequate information,” Ebienfa told reporters.
Burkinabe authorities, in a statement, reportedly highlighted what they described as the absence of proper authorisation for the Nigerian military aircraft to fly through the territory of Burkina Faso. The statement referred to the jet as a military device that lacked the required clearance to operate within Burkinabe airspace.
Security and diplomatic sources said discussions were ongoing between Nigerian and Burkinabe officials to resolve the matter and secure the release of the aircraft and crew in line with existing military and diplomatic protocols.
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The development comes at a period of heightened security sensitivity in the West African sub-region, where military movements and cross-border operations are closely monitored due to rising concerns over insurgency, terrorism and political instability.
Authorities in Nigeria have assured that the matter is being handled through diplomatic channels, while further updates are expected as investigations continue.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
