Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso :December 9, 2025
The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) has accused Nigeria of violating Burkinabe airspace after a Nigerian military transport aircraft made an unscheduled landing in the western city of Bobo-Dioulasso.
The allegation was broadcast on state television by Burkina Faso’s Minister of Territorial Administration, Émile Zerbo, who read a statement on behalf of General Assimi Goïta, the AES chair. According to the communiqué, the Nigerian Air Force plane entered Burkinabe territory without prior clearance before landing on December 8 following what officials described as an “in-flight technical incident.”
Burkinabe authorities reported that the aircraft was carrying two crew members and nine military personnel. Their inquiry concluded that the flight had crossed national airspace without authorisation, a move the AES framed as a serious breach of sovereignty.
The episode comes amid heightened regional tensions. Just a day earlier, Nigerian military aircraft were deployed to Benin after a faction of soldiers claimed to have ousted President Patrice Talon. Abuja defended its intervention, saying it was carried out at the request of Benin’s government and in line with Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) security protocols. The AES, which has distanced itself from ECOWAS in recent years, has positioned the Burkina Faso incident as further evidence of Nigeria’s disregard for regional sovereignty.
Nigeria Responds
In Abuja, the Nigerian Air Force rejected the AES accusations, insisting the landing was a precautionary measure dictated by safety concerns.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, said the C‑130 transport aircraft had departed Lagos on a ferry mission to Portugal when the crew detected a technical fault. “The pilots opted for an immediate landing at Bobo-Dioulasso, the nearest available airfield, in line with international aviation safety protocols,” Ejodame explained.
He dismissed reports that the personnel were detained, stressing that all 11 Nigerians “are safe and have received cordial treatment from the host authorities.” Ejodame added that arrangements were being made for the aircraft to resume its journey once cleared.
The Air Force expressed gratitude for public support and reaffirmed its commitment to strict operational procedures and safety standards.
Regional Implications
Whether the incident escalates diplomatically remains uncertain. But analysts note it underscores the fragile state of relations in West Africa, where shifting alliances, contested mandates, and political upheavals continue to test regional stability.
Source: Sankofaonline
