Sahel alliance warns Nigeria it will 'neutralise' any unauthorised aircraft in its airspace

Emergency Landing of Nigerian Military Plane in Burkina Faso

A Nigerian military aircraft made an emergency landing in western Burkina Faso, leading to heightened tensions between Nigeria and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). According to a statement by Burkina Faso's Minister of Territorial Administration, the AES reported that the aircraft, carrying nine military personnel, lacked authorization to enter Burkinabe airspace.

The AES condemned the incident as a violation of international law and both civil and military aviation regulations. The alliance emphasized that it has enhanced its airspace security and is prepared to address any unauthorized incursions.

This incident follows Nigeria's deployment of military aircraft to Benin to support the government against a coup attempt. Nigeria asserts that this action was taken at the request of Benin's government and aligned with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) mechanisms.

A political divide is emerging among West African nations. The AES, comprising Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, exited ECOWAS in January, resulting in the suspension of trade between the two blocs. The region has witnessed a series of military coups, with the most recent occurring in Guinea-Bissau. The AES's departure from ECOWAS was prompted by the bloc's threat to intervene following the 2023 military coup in Niger.

Based on reporting by Africanews.