The news was confirmed by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar. In a statement shared on social media platform X, Tuggar announced the soldiers’ safe arrival on Friday evening, noting they arrived aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft.

“I can confirm that the pilots and crew of NAF C-130 (913) have safely arrived at the Air Force Base in Accra,” Tuggar wrote, underscoring the importance of the event.

The minister further emphasized that the soldiers’ return underscores Nigeria’s dedication to diplomacy and peaceful methods in addressing complex regional challenges. This development serves as a testament to Nigeria’s strategic approach to international relations and conflict resolution.

He added that the successful return of the soldiers highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to diplomacy and peaceful engagement in resolving sensitive regional matters.

Tuggar credited the outcome to Nigeria’s diplomatic efforts, regional cooperation, and the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“The successful outcome reflects Nigeria’s commitment to diplomacy, regional cooperation, and the leadership of the President in resolving sensitive matters through dialogue,” he said.

The soldiers were detained after their aircraft made an unscheduled landing in Bobo-Dioulasso on December 8, following a technical issue shortly after departing Lagos en route to Portugal.

Burkina Faso’s military authorities subsequently held the personnel and the aircraft over alleged airspace violations, describing the incident as a breach of sovereignty.

Their release and safe arrival mark the resolution of a tense diplomatic episode, underscoring the role of dialogue and cooperation in addressing cross-border security and aviation concerns in the region.