AES Condemns Nigerian Military Aircraft Incursion and Places Air Defenses on Maximum Alert

Niamey, December 8, 2025 - The Confederation of Sahel States (AES) issued a press release today condemning the unauthorized incursion of a Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft into Burkinabe airspace. The aircraft, carrying two crew members and nine passengers-all military personnel, was forced to land in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, following an in-flight emergency.

An investigation conducted by Burkinabe authorities confirmed that the aircraft lacked authorization to overfly Burkinabe territory, constituting a breach of both national sovereignty and international aviation law.

The AES denounced the act as hostile and in violation of international norms, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding confederal airspace, territorial integrity, and civilian safety. In response, and following instructions from the Heads of State, AES air and anti-aircraft defenses have been placed on maximum alert, consistent with the Declaration of the College of Heads of State of December 22, 2024. These defenses are now authorized to neutralize any aircraft that violates AES airspace.

The Confederation stressed that this measure is a demonstration of sovereign authority, aimed at ensuring that member states’ airspace is respected and that regional security is reinforced against unauthorized military operations.

Aircraft: Nigerian Air Force C-130, 2 crew, 9 passengers.

Location of emergency landing: Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.

AES response: Air defenses on maximum alert; authorized to neutralize violators.

Legal context: Violation of international civil and military aviation regulations.

Broader implications: Reinforces AES commitment to sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.