Burkina Faso Releases Detained Nigerian Military Aircraft and Personnel After High-Level Diplomatic Talks

The Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed the release of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft and 11 military personnel that were earlier detained in Burkina Faso following a forced landing, marking the resolution of a tense diplomatic episode between the two West African countries.


Confirmation of the development came late Wednesday, when the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Kimiebi Ebienfa, disclosed that both the aircraft and the detained personnel had been freed. According to Ebienfa, the release followed sustained diplomatic engagements between Nigerian authorities and officials of the Burkinabe government. “Yes, they have been released,” he stated, confirming the successful outcome of negotiations.

The breakthrough reportedly came after a high-level meeting held earlier on Wednesday in Ouagadougou between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Yusuf Tuggar, and Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. According to diplomatic sources familiar with the discussions, the meeting focused on clarifying the circumstances surrounding the aircraft’s landing and reassuring Burkina Faso of Nigeria’s commitment to regional cooperation and respect for sovereignty.


The Nigerian military aircraft had made an unscheduled landing in Burkina Faso under circumstances that initially raised security concerns among Burkinabe authorities. According to officials briefed on the matter, the aircraft and its crew were subsequently detained while investigations were carried out to determine the nature of the mission and ensure it posed no threat to national security. The incident drew attention within diplomatic and security circles, given the fragile security situation in the Sahel region.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria approached the situation through diplomatic channels, emphasizing dialogue rather than confrontation. Officials noted that Minister Tuggar’s visit underscored Nigeria’s long-standing policy of resolving disputes peacefully and maintaining cordial relations with neighbouring countries, particularly at a time when regional cooperation is critical to combating insecurity and terrorism.

Observers say the release reflects improving diplomatic communication between Nigeria and Burkina Faso, despite broader regional tensions involving military-led governments in parts of West Africa. According to regional analysts, the incident also highlights the importance of transparency and timely diplomatic engagement in preventing misunderstandings that could escalate into larger disputes.

The Federal Government has since expressed appreciation to Burkinabe authorities for their cooperation and willingness to engage constructively. According to officials, arrangements are being finalized to ensure the safe return of the aircraft and personnel to Nigeria.

Meanwhile, security and foreign affairs experts say the episode serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required in military operations and cross-border movements within the region, where mistrust and security sensitivities remain high. According to government sources, Nigeria remains committed to strengthening diplomatic ties and promoting stability across West Africa through dialogue and mutual respect.

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