The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that one of its C-130 aircraft, NAF 913, previously detained in Burkina Faso, has safely arrived in Portugal for scheduled maintenance.
According to NAF, the aircraft completed a ferry flight to a maintenance facility in Lisbon in line with approved aviation safety procedures.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, NAF spokesperson, stated on Friday, December 26, 2025, that the aircraft transited through Banjul and Casablanca without incident, marking the final phase of its movement for depot maintenance. “All personnel are safe and remain in high spirits,” Ejodame added, commending the cooperation of authorities along the route and reaffirming the Air Force’s commitment to safety and operational accountability.
The aircraft had been detained in Burkina Faso on December 8 over alleged airspace violations but was released about ten days later following diplomatic engagements led by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, including discussions with Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traoré.
The successful arrival in Portugal now allows the aircraft to undergo its planned maintenance without further delay.
