• AES condemns Nigerian military plane’s unauthorized landing in Burkina Faso

• Nigeria cites emergency due to technical issue; all personnel reported safe

• AES boosts airspace security amid regional tensions and ECOWAS withdrawal

The Confederation of Sahel States (AES) has condemned “in the strongest terms” the violation of its airspace and the sovereignty of its member states after a Nigerian military aircraft landed in Burkina Faso, according to a statement issued on Monday.

A C-130 transport plane was forced to make an emergency landing in Bobo-Dioulasso due to an in-flight technical problem, while operating in Burkinabe airspace without authorization, according to findings by the relevant authorities. The aircraft was carrying two crew members and nine passengers, all military personnel.

“Measures are being taken to ensure the security of AES airspace, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its member states, and the safety of the population,” the statement said.

It added that, on the orders of the heads of state, AES air and air-defense units have been authorized to intercept any aircraft that violates the Confederation’s airspace.

In response, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) issued a clarification regarding the diversion of the C-130 during its ferry flight to Portugal.

“Following takeoff from Lagos, the crew observed a technical concern which necessitated a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, the nearest airfield, in accordance with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols,” the NAF said.

It added that all crew members were safe and had received a warm welcome from the Burkinabe authorities. Preparations are underway for the mission to resume as planned.

The development comes after President Bola Tinubu authorized the deployment of Nigerian troops to Benin to help restore calm and stability following a Dec. 7 coup attempt.

Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger announced their withdrawal from the ECOWAS bloc in January 2024, accusing the organization of being “under the influence of foreign powers.” They also denounced the sanctions imposed on them following military coups.

Lydie Mobio