Burkina Faso finally releases 11 detained Nigerian Air Force personnel
Burkina Faso has released 11 Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel who were held by its authorities, following intense diplomatic efforts by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Release Follows High-Level Diplomatic Intervention
The release came after a Nigerian delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, held talks with Burkinabè authorities, including Burkina Faso’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré.
The mission focused on easing tensions and resolving the matter through dialogue.
Foreign Affairs Ministry Confirms Development
The spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed the development shortly after the delegation wrapped up meetings in Ouagadougou.
He stressed that diplomacy played a key role in the outcome.
According to him, “The release of the Nigerian Air Force personnel reflects the success of constructive dialogue and Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful engagement with its neighbours.”
Delegation Included Defence and Air Force Officials
The Nigerian team was made up of senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Defence, and the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters.
They were mandated to pursue a peaceful resolution through sustained engagement and mutual understanding.
Reports indicate that the delegation worked closely with Burkinabè officials to clarify issues surrounding the detention and prevent further escalation.
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Cooperation
A senior official familiar with the mission said the visit was also aimed at reinforcing Nigeria’s respect for international aviation and military rules while strengthening regional ties.
“The mission points to Nigeria’s preference for diplomacy and neighbourly engagement. It was a confidence-building visit designed to strengthen trust and reaffirm shared responsibilities in addressing the complex security challenges confronting the Sahel,” the source said.
Optimism Over Stronger Bilateral Relations
Officials on both sides expressed optimism that the successful resolution would further deepen cooperation between Nigeria and Burkina Faso.
The delegation reportedly reaffirmed Abuja’s commitment to regional security collaboration, dialogue, and respect for international norms, especially within the Sahel region.
The incident is expected to strengthen trust and boost collective efforts to promote peace, stability, and security across West Africa.
FG Earlier Dismissed Espionage Claims
Before the release, the Nigerian government had rejected online claims that a Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft was forced to land in Burkina Faso over alleged spying activities.
Authorities described the reports as false and misleading.
They also dismissed claims that the detained personnel were intelligence officers involved in covert operations, insisting the mission was routine and in line with international standards.
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