Nigeria — The Nigerian government has intensified diplomatic efforts to secure the release of 11 Nigerian military personnel who remain detained in Bobo‑Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, following an emergency landing of a Nigerian Air Force C‑130 aircraft on 8 December 2025.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the aircraft was en route to Portugal when it experienced technical difficulties, forcing an unscheduled landing in Burkina Faso’s second-largest city, located in the country’s southwest. The personnel aboard — including the crew and other military staff — were subsequently detained by Burkinabe authorities.
“These personnel acted professionally and followed all emergency protocols,” Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar said during a press briefing. “Their detention is unnecessary and counterproductive. Nigeria expects their immediate release.”
The Nigerian government emphasized that the landing was purely technical and posed no threat to Burkina Faso’s sovereignty or security. Tuggar also highlighted ongoing diplomatic engagement, noting that Nigerian officials are in direct communication with Burkinabe authorities to resolve the matter.
Regional Implications
The incident has sparked concern among West African nations, with observers warning that prolonged detention could strain bilateral relations and undermine regional cooperation. Analysts note that Nigeria has historically been a stabilizing force in West Africa, participating in peacekeeping missions and regional security initiatives.
Calls for Release
Diplomats and public officials in Nigeria have called on Burkina Faso to demonstrate leadership and solidarity by releasing the detained military personnel. According to government sources, releasing the personnel would reinforce trust, respect humanitarian norms, and maintain strong bilateral relations between the two countries.
Next Steps
As diplomatic efforts continue, the Nigerian government remains committed to peaceful resolution while asserting the safety and dignity of its personnel as a non-negotiable priority.
“We continue to engage Burkina Faso through proper diplomatic channels, but our position is firm: our military personnel must be returned home safely,” Tuggar said.
The situation remains fluid, and further updates are expected as talks between Abuja and Ouagadougou progress.
📚 References
- Burkina Faso releases 11 Nigerian troops after ‘unauthorised’ plane landing — The Guardian. The Guardian
- Burkina Faso releases 11 Nigerian officers after Abuja claims the aircraft was en route to Portugal — Business Insider Africa. Business Insider Africa
- Burkina Faso releases 11 detained Nigerian military personnel — TVC News. Trending News
- Fate of 11 Nigerian troops unclear after ‘unauthorised’ plane landing — The Guardian. The Guardian
Contextual reporting on the original detention:
- Multiple reports on the detention and aircraft seizure by AES. The Guardian
