NAF C-130 aircraft arrives in Portugal after Burkina Faso detention

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed the safe arrival of its C-130 aircraft, with registration number NAF 913, at a maintenance facility in Lisbon, Portugal.

The aircraft, which had earlier been detained by Burkina Faso authorities over alleged airspace violations, arrived at its final destination on Friday following clearance and diplomatic engagement between both countries.

Burkina Faso had detained the aircraft and its crew on December 8, citing a breach of its airspace sovereignty.

The personnel were later released about 10 days after a high-level Nigerian delegation, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, met with Burkina Faso’s President, Ibrahim Traoré, and other senior officials.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Nigerian Air Force spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the aircraft completed its ferry flight in line with updated flight plans and established aviation safety procedures.

“The Nigerian Air Force confirms that its C-130 aircraft (NAF 913) arrived safely at the maintenance facility, OGMA, in Lisbon, Portugal, today, 26 December 2025,” the statement read.

Ejodame explained that the aircraft transited through Banjul and Casablanca before arriving in Portugal, adding that the operation marked the final phase of its movement for scheduled depot maintenance.
“The aircraft and crew arrived without incident. All personnel are safe and remain in high spirits,” he said.

The Air Force also expressed appreciation to host authorities along the transit route for their cooperation, while reaffirming its commitment to safety, professionalism, and operational accountability.