Detained NAF aircraft, 11 soldiers not released yet – Foreign Minister

Detained NAF aircraft, 11 soldiers not released yet – Foreign Minister

• Diplomatic talks drag

A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) C-130 aircraft and 11 soldiers detained in a foreign country are yet to be released, despite ongoing diplomatic engagements by the Federal Government.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Sunday that discussions with the authorities of the country involved are still in progress, but have not yielded the release of the aircraft and the military personnel.

Speaking on the development, the ministry’s spokesperson, Mr. Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the Federal Government remains actively engaged in diplomatic talks aimed at resolving the situation.

“We are engaging them, but they are yet to be released,” Ebienfa said.

READ ALSO:

• Political Ambition, Prophecy and Public Morality: Questions Raised Over Adelabu–Ayodele Controversy
• Bauchi Gov Approves 100% Salary Increase for Doctors, Health Workers
• Nigerian Troops Repel ISWAP Attack on Borno FOB, Kill Terrorists
• Mass Shooting at Brown University in US Leaves 2 Dead, 9 Injured

He explained that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken over the negotiations to ensure the safe return of both the detained aircraft and the Nigerian soldiers, following initial efforts by relevant security agencies.

While official details surrounding the circumstances of the detention remain undisclosed due to the sensitive nature of the talks, the incident has drawn attention because of the strategic importance of the C-130 aircraft, which is commonly used for military logistics, peace support operations, and humanitarian missions.

Sources within diplomatic circles said the government is pursuing a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to the matter, even as concerns grow over the prolonged detention of the aircraft and personnel.

The ministry assured that efforts are ongoing and that Nigeria is committed to securing the release of its military assets and personnel through diplomatic channels, with further updates expected as negotiations continue.

 

Detained NAF aircraft, 11 soldiers not released yet – Foreign Minister