President John Dramani Mahama’s Special Envoy, Colonel Larry Gbevlo Lartey, has received a Nigerian aircraft and its crew, released by Burkinabe authorities after being detained for allegedly entering Burkina Faso’s airspace without clearance.
The aircraft and crew arrived in Ghana on Saturday, December 12, where Colonel Lartey welcomed the delegation on behalf of the President, highlighting that the prompt resolution demonstrates the strength of diplomatic engagement in the West African subregion.
In a statement released the same day, Col. Lartey commended both the Nigerian and Burkina Faso governments for their constructive collaboration, which he said prevented the incident from escalating into a diplomatic conflict.
“This incident is a clear reminder that we are brothers and partners in the West African subregion, capable of resolving differences amicably,” the statement reads.
The Special Envoy added that the aircraft crew would remain in Ghana briefly to conduct essential technical checks. Once completed, the aircraft is scheduled to resume its journey to Portugal for servicing.
Through its diplomatic channels, the Ghanaian government reaffirmed its commitment to fostering strong regional relations and ensuring that such incidents are resolved promptly, peacefully, and in the spirit of mutual respect.
