Burkina Faso has released the 11 Nigerian military officers earlier detained following the forced landing of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) C-130 transport aircraft in Ouagadougou. The personnel were held after Burkina Faso authorities questioned the aircraft’s presence in its airspace.
According to the Nigerian Air Force, the aircraft was on a scheduled flight en route to Portugal for an official assignment when it made a precautionary landing in Burkina Faso. The Air Force added that all flight protocols were duly followed and that there was no intention to violate the country’s airspace or security regulations.
The temporary detention of the officers had raised diplomatic concerns across West Africa, especially amid rising regional tensions. Their release marks a significant step toward easing the strain and reaffirming ongoing communication between Abuja and Ouagadougou.
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Regional observers note that the swift resolution underscores the need for stronger airspace coordination and improved dialogue among West African states, especially at a time when political instability and security uncertainties remain widespread.