The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed the safe arrival of its C-130 aircraft, NAF 913, at a maintenance facility in Lisbon, Portugal.
The aircraft and its crew were previously detained by Burkina Faso on December 8 over alleged airspace violations, an action the country described as a breach of its sovereignty. The personnel were released about 10 days later following high-level diplomatic talks led by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, who met with Burkina Faso President Ibrahim Traoré and members of his administration.
In a statement on Friday, NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the ferry flight to Lisbon was completed according to an updated flight plan and standard 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 statement read.
“The aircraft transited Banjul and Casablanca and landed without incident, completing the final stage of 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 during the transit and reiterates its commitment to the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and operational accountability.”
