The Federal Government has dismissed as false claims circulating online that a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) C-130 aircraft currently in Burkina Faso was forced to land over alleged espionage activities.
In a statement made available on Sunday, the government described the reports as misleading, stressing that neither the Nigerian Air Force nor any federal authority announced the detention or release of the aircraft’s crew by Burkinabe officials.
Aircraft on authorised maintenance flight
According to the statement titled “False Claims Debunked as Facts Emerge on Nigerian Military Aircraft Ferry Flight and Precautionary Landing in Burkina Faso,” the aircraft was on a duly authorised ferry flight to Portugal for scheduled depot maintenance.
The government explained that the journey was a routine lifecycle requirement for military transport aircraft and had no operational or intelligence-related mission attached to it.
“The aircraft had no operational tasking of any kind. The flight was fully documented and approved, including provisions for diversion in line with international aviation procedures,” the statement said.
Precautionary landing explained
Authorities clarified that the aircraft’s landing at Bobo-Dioulasso in Burkina Faso was purely precautionary and carried out for safety reasons, in line with standard aviation protocols.
“At no time was the aircraft intercepted or forced to land. Claims of airspace violations or hostile intent are fabrications designed to misinform the public,” the statement added.
FG dismisses espionage allegations
The Federal Government also rejected allegations that the 11 crew members and engineering personnel onboard were intelligence officers trained for espionage or signals intelligence operations.
It said the personnel were standard aircrew and mission-support officers conducting a legitimate military air movement, noting that the aircraft was not equipped with surveillance or data-collection systems.
Diplomatic engagement ongoing
According to the government, interactions between Burkinabe authorities and the NAF crew have remained professional, and the crew members have maintained contact with their families.
It further clarified that issues relating to the aircraft and its personnel are being handled through appropriate diplomatic channels by relevant Nigerian ministries and agencies, in line with international norms and bilateral relations.
FG warns against disinformation
The government warned that the continued spread of false narratives reflects a deliberate disinformation campaign aimed at discrediting Nigeria, undermining public trust, and straining regional relations.
Nigerians were urged to rely on verified information and avoid sensational claims that could distort facts or threaten regional stability.
“While constructive scrutiny is welcome in a democracy, spreading falsehoods weakens national cohesion and undermines Nigeria’s standing,” the statement said.
Conclusion
The Federal Government has reaffirmed that the NAF C-130 aircraft’s presence in Burkina Faso was the result of a routine, authorised operation and not an espionage mission. Authorities urged citizens to remain calm and patriotic, emphasizing the need for responsible discourse on national security matters.