169
By Lizzy Chirkpi
The Nigerian soldiers earlier held in Burkina Faso have safely arrived at an Air Force facility in Accra, Ghana, marking another step in their onward journey to Portugal.
A statement issued on Friday in Abuja by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the development and assured Nigerians that all personnel were in good condition.
Ejodame explained that the NAF C-130 aircraft conveying the soldiers had been travelling to Portugal, with scheduled stops in Banjul and Casablanca, for routine depot maintenance. It was during this mission that the aircraft made a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso—a stop that triggered public concern and brief diplomatic engagement.
He stressed that the situation was not an emergency and that the aircraft’s safety systems performed as expected, leading to a safe landing and resolution of the issue.
“The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that its C-130 aircraft, which made a precautionary landing in Burkina Faso, has safely arrived in Accra, Ghana, ahead of its onward journey to Portugal,” Ejodame stated.
He further assured the public that the aircraft remains fully serviceable and that all crew members are safe.
“We will continue to operate to the highest standards of safety and professionalism. We thank Nigerians for their concern and support during the precautionary event,” he added.