A senior Nigerian military source has dismissed claims that a Nigerian Air Force aircraft was on a clandestine mission in Burkina Faso. The source explained that the C-130 transport plane was on a scheduled ferry mission to Portugal when it made an emergency diversion to Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, after the crew noticed a technical issue.
According to the source, the diversion followed standard aviation safety procedures and was not linked to any combat, intelligence, or political operation in Burkina Faso or the wider Sahel region. The aircraft reportedly headed to the nearest suitable airfield to ensure the safety of the crew and passengers, in line with international aviation protocols.
The Nigerian Air Force has also clarified in earlier statements that Burkina Faso did not ground the aircraft but received it after the precautionary landing. The crew and the other Nigerian military personnel on board were said to be safe and treated cordially by Burkinabe authorities while discussions between both countries continued.
Military authorities maintain that the aircraft had no tasking related to operations in Burkina Faso and was only transiting the region as part of its journey to Europe. They described reports suggesting espionage or secret military engagement as misleading and capable of causing unnecessary diplomatic tension between Nigeria and Burkina Faso.
The Nigerian government has been engaging with Burkinabe and regional authorities to resolve any outstanding issues arising from the incident. Officials insist that Nigeria remains committed to respecting the sovereignty of neighbouring states while safeguarding its personnel and assets during international missions.
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