Nigerian Military Speaks on NAF Aircraft Detained in Burkina Faso
The Nigerian military has dismissed reports alleging that a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft was involved in a covert intelligence operation in Burkina Faso, describing the claims as false, misleading and unsupported by facts.
A military source told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the aircraft was never deployed on any operational or intelligence mission in Burkina Faso, explaining that it was on a duly authorised ferry flight to Portugal for scheduled periodic depot maintenance.
According to the source, such maintenance flights are routine requirements in the operational lifecycle of military transport aircraft and are conducted with full documentation and international aviation clearance.
“The aircraft had no operational tasking whatsoever. It was on a legitimate maintenance ferry flight and was covered by all necessary flight documentation, including diversion provisions in line with international aviation standards,” the source said.
He explained that the precautionary landing at Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, was carried out strictly on safety grounds and in full compliance with established aviation protocols.
“At no time was the aircraft intercepted, forced to land, or operating without authorisation. Claims of airspace violation or hostile intent are complete fabrications,” the source added.
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The source also dismissed allegations suggesting espionage, signals intelligence operations, foreign sponsorship or involvement of external networks, stressing that personnel onboard were standard aircrew and mission-support officers on a legitimate military air movement.
“The aircraft was not equipped with any surveillance or data-collection systems, and interactions between Burkinabe authorities and the NAF crew have remained professional and cordial,” he said.
Clarifying further, the source noted that contrary to online speculation, the Nigerian Air Force did not issue any statement claiming that the aircraft crew had been “released.”
He said matters relating to the aircraft and its personnel were being responsibly handled by relevant Nigerian government ministries and agencies through established diplomatic channels, in accordance with international norms and bilateral relations.
The source described the circulation of the reports as a deliberate disinformation effort aimed at discrediting Nigeria, eroding public confidence and straining regional ties.
He urged Nigerians to remain calm, rely on verified information and disregard sensational narratives capable of distorting facts and threatening regional stability.
“In an era of heightened information warfare, citizens must engage national security issues with discernment and responsibility,” the source told NAN.
