In a calm but decisive show of diplomacy, Nigeria has secured the safe release of eleven Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel who were temporarily detained in Burkina Faso after an emergency aircraft landing.
The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar (OON), confirmed that the officers arrived safely in Ghana on Thursday, 19 December 2025, aboard a Nigerian Air Force C-130 (913) aircraft.
The personnel had earlier been held following an unscheduled landing in Burkina Faso, a situation that raised diplomatic concern. However, through sustained engagement, quiet negotiations and peaceful dialogue between Abuja and Ouagadougou, the matter was resolved amicably, paving the way for the officers’ release and clearance of the aircraft.
On arrival in Accra, the officers were warmly received by Colonel Larry Gbevlo-Lartey, Special Envoy of the Ghanaian President to the Alliance of Sahel States, alongside officials of the Nigerian High Commission and senior officers of the Nigerian Air Force and the Ghana Air Force.
The reception underscored the strong bilateral ties and military cooperation between Nigeria and Ghana, as the officers were hosted by their Ghanaian counterparts in a show of regional solidarity.
The NAF personnel are scheduled to depart Accra for Portugal on Saturday, 20 December 2025, bringing the episode to a smooth and dignified close.
Minister Tuggar conveyed Nigeria’s deep appreciation to the Governments of Burkina Faso and Ghana for their cooperation, reaffirming that dialogue, mutual respect and constructive diplomacy remain Nigeria’s preferred tools for resolving regional issues.
The successful outcome, observers say, reinforces Nigeria’s leadership role in West Africa and its unwavering commitment to peace, professionalism and diplomatic engagement.
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