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The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, says its C-130 aircraft, NAF 913, has arrived at a maintenance facility in Lisbon, Portugal, its final destination.
Recall that Burkina Faso had earlier detained the aircraft and its personnel over alleged airspace violations and breach of sovereignty on December 8, 2025.
DAILY POST reports that the personnel were later released about 10 days after a high-level Nigerian delegation, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, met with Burkina Faso President Ibrahim Traoré and other members of his administration.
Confirming the development in a statement on Friday, NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the aircraft arrived after a ferry flight conducted in line with an updated flight plan and aviation safety procedures.
“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 statement read in part.
NAF expressed appreciation for the cooperation and support of the host authorities throughout the transit.
It reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of safety, professionalism and operational accountability.
NAF C-130 aircraft arrives Portugal after Burkina Faso detention
