The Federal Government has confirmed that 11 Nigerian soldiers and a C-130 aircraft remain detained in Burkina Faso following a precautionary landing in Bobo Dioulasso earlier this week.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said the aircraft, en route to Portugal for maintenance, made the emergency landing due to technical faults. However, Burkina Faso and the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) accused the crew of entering their airspace without proper clearance, leading to the plane’s seizure.

Speaking on the issue, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, assured that diplomatic discussions were ongoing to secure the release of both the aircraft and the military personnel. “We are engaging them, but they are yet to be released,” Ebienfa said, noting that the Ministry had taken over all negotiations.

The Nigerian Air Force has opted to remain silent on the situation, allowing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to lead diplomatic efforts. Meanwhile, retired NAF officers contacted by Vanguard warned against speculation, emphasizing that premature judgments could compromise ongoing government-to-government discussions.

Some analysts suggested that Burkina Faso, alongside other Sahel states such as Mali and Niger, may be using the situation as leverage amid economic difficulties following ECOWAS sanctions and reduced international trade. A retired officer noted that these countries may view the detention as a bargaining tool to seek economic relief or concessions from Nigeria.

The Federal Government continues to pursue a peaceful resolution while safeguarding the safety of its personnel.