The Nigerian Air Force has announced the successful arrival of its C-130 aircraft, NAF 913, at a maintenance facility in Lisbon, Portugal, marking the completion of its journey following its detention in Burkina Faso.
The aircraft and its personnel were earlier held by Burkinabe authorities over alleged airspace violations, which were described as a breach of the country’s sovereignty on December 8.
Recall that the detained soldiers were released about 10 days later after a high-level Nigerian delegation, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, held talks with Burkina Faso President Ibrahim Traoré and senior officials of his administration.
Confirming the development in a statement on Friday, the Nigerian Air Force spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the aircraft arrived in Portugal after completing a ferry flight carried out in accordance with an updated flight plan and established aviation safety standards.
According to the statement, “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 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.
“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.”
The arrival in Lisbon marks the final destination of the aircraft for its scheduled depot maintenance.
Post A Comment: