The Confederation of Sahel States (AES) has accused the Nigerian Air Force of violating its airspace after a C-130 transport aircraft made an emergency landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, on December 8, 2025.

According to AES authorities, the aircraft, carrying two crew members and nine military passengers, entered Burkinabe airspace without the required overflight authorization. Burkinabe investigators reportedly confirmed the absence of clearance after the emergency landing.

AES strongly condemned the incident, describing it as a breach of its sovereignty and international aviation regulations. The bloc said the violation constituted an unfriendly act that undermined regional security protocols.

Following directives from the College of Heads of State, AES announced that its air and anti-aircraft defense systems have been placed on maximum alert. Member states have now been authorized to neutralize any aircraft that violates confederal airspace.

The statement, signed in Bamako by Mali’s transitional President and AES Chairman, General Assimi Goita, reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and protecting its population.