The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that its C-130 aircraft, with registration number NAF 913, has safely arrived at a maintenance facility in Lisbon, Portugal, bringing to a close a tense episode that followed its earlier detention in Burkina Faso.
The aircraft and its crew were held by Burkinabe authorities on December 8 over alleged airspace violations, an incident Burkina Faso described at the time as a breach of its sovereignty. The matter was later resolved through diplomatic engagement, leading to the release of both the personnel and the aircraft about 10 days later.
The breakthrough came after a high-level Nigerian delegation, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, held talks with Burkina Faso’s President, Ibrahim Traoré, and senior government officials.
Confirming the aircraft’s arrival on Friday, NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the C-130 completed its journey in line with updated flight plans and standard aviation safety protocols.
“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,” Ejodame said.
According to him, the aircraft conducted a ferry flight that transited Banjul and Casablanca before reaching its final destination.
“The ferry flight was successfully completed, transiting Banjul and Casablanca in line with an updated flight plan and established aviation safety procedures. The aircraft and crew arrived without incident, marking the final phase of the movement for the scheduled depot maintenance. All personnel are safe and remain in high spirits,” he added.
Ejodame also expressed appreciation to authorities in the transit countries, noting that the Air Force remains committed to professionalism and operational accountability.
“The Nigerian Air Force appreciates the cooperation and support of host authorities throughout the transit, while reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of safety, professionalism and operational accountability,” he said.
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