Burkina Faso has released 11 Nigerian Air Force personnel nine days after their detention, following intensive diplomatic engagements between the governments of Nigeria and Burkina Faso.
The airmen, made up of pilots and crew members of the Nigerian Air Force, were freed shortly after a high-level Nigerian delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, concluded talks with Burkinabè authorities in Ouagadougou.
The release was confirmed on Wednesday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, who said it followed “sustained diplomatic engagement and dialogue at the highest levels.”
According to a statement shared on X, the diplomatic efforts included a meeting with Burkina Faso’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, during which Nigeria pressed for the immediate release of the detained personnel.
Speaking after the breakthrough, Tuggar said the development underscored Nigeria’s commitment to diplomacy and regional cooperation.
“We engaged our brothers in Burkina Faso frankly and constructively, and we are pleased that our personnel have now been released,” he said.
The minister added that Nigeria had clearly explained the circumstances surrounding the flight that led to the detention and reaffirmed its respect for Burkina Faso’s sovereignty, noting that the matter was handled in a spirit of African solidarity.
Burkinabè authorities, in turn, acknowledged the discussions and agreed on the need to strengthen cooperation between both countries, particularly in addressing shared security challenges in the Sahel region.
The released Air Force personnel are expected to return to Nigeria after completing routine administrative procedures. Diplomatic sources said both countries have also agreed to enhance communication channels to prevent similar incidents in the future.