The Federal Government has confirmed that eleven personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, along with a C-130 military aircraft, remain in custody in Burkina Faso, despite ongoing diplomatic engagements aimed at resolving the situation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed on Sunday that sustained discussions are underway with authorities in Burkina Faso to secure the release of the detained officers and the aircraft. According to the ministry, the matter is being addressed through formal diplomatic channels to ensure a peaceful and mutually acceptable outcome.
Speaking on the issue, the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, stated that while talks are progressing, the detained personnel and aircraft have not yet been released. He noted that the Federal Government remains committed to resolving the issue amicably and without escalation.
Ebienfa further explained that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has now assumed full responsibility for the negotiations, coordinating Nigeria’s response and engagement with the Burkinabe government. Although the ministry declined to provide specific details surrounding the circumstances of the detention, it reassured the public that appropriate diplomatic procedures are being followed.
The Nigerian Air Force officers were reportedly detained last week after their aircraft made an emergency landing in Burkina Faso. Authorities in the host country allegedly claimed that the aircraft violated their airspace, a charge that has since generated regional attention.
Meanwhile, the Confederation of Sahel States (AES)—a regional alliance comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—has accused Nigeria of breaching Burkina Faso’s airspace. The bloc described the incident as an unfriendly act and a violation of international law. In a strong response, the AES also announced that its member states are authorised to intercept or neutralise any aircraft deemed to have entered their airspace without permission.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the Federal Government has expressed confidence that dialogue will lead to the safe release of the Nigerian personnel and the aircraft, while also preserving regional stability and bilateral relations.
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