One of the eleven Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel currently detained in Burkina Faso has confirmed that their aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing in the West African country due to a technical fault.
The disclosure was made during a meeting with a Nigerian delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, who visited the detained personnel as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts.
According to the air force officer, the aircraft was en route to Portugal when it developed a technical issue, compelling the crew to carry out an emergency landing in Burkina Faso. He added that the fault has since been rectified, making it possible for operations to continue.
During the meeting, Minister Tuggar conveyed a personal message from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the detained NAF personnel, reassuring them of the Nigerian government’s commitment to their welfare and safe return.
The minister also disclosed that Burkina Faso’s military ruler, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, had expressed willingness to provide technical assistance to Nigeria if the need arises.
The development comes amid sustained diplomatic engagements between Nigeria and Burkina Faso aimed at ensuring the safety, well-being and prompt release of the detained Nigerian Air Force personnel.