Following its release by Burkinabe authorities after a brief diplomatic standoff, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) C-130 aircraft has safely landed in Accra, Ghana, on its way to scheduled maintenance in Portugal.
NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the arrival on Friday, noting that the aircraft departed Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, and arrived in Accra according to an updated flight plan. The stop in Ghana is part of the planned route to Portugal via Banjul and Casablanca for depot maintenance.
Ejodame reassured that all personnel on board are safe and that the aircraft remains fully serviceable. “The Nigerian Air Force appreciates the concern and support expressed by members of the public and assures Nigerians that the Service continues to operate to the highest standards of safety and professionalism”, he said.
The C-130 had made a precautionary landing in Burkina Faso on December 8 following a technical issue detected shortly after departing Lagos.
The Confederation of Sahel States had initially described the landing as an “unfriendly act”, but NAF clarified that it was in line with international aviation protocols.
The aircraft and crew were released following high-level diplomatic engagement led by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, underscoring the importance of regional cooperation and adherence to aviation safety standards.
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