Burkina Faso releases 11 Nigerian troops after ‘unauthorised’ plane landing

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have announced the commencement of their troop withdrawal from the strategic town of Uvira in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following a period of intense conflict that has led to significant civilian displacement. This announcement comes amid ongoing violence in the region, which has seen approximately 200,000 people flee their homes due to the M23's military actions.

Hundreds of members of Nigeria's main labour union have taken to the streets, demanding urgent government action to address the escalating insecurity characterized by rampant kidnappings and killings that threaten their safety and livelihoods. This protest underscores the growing frustration among citizens regarding the government's inability to ensure security.

Nigeria has issued an apology following the detention of 11 of its military personnel by Burkina Faso, who were held after their C-130 cargo plane made an unauthorized emergency landing in Bobo-Dioulasso. Although the servicemen have been released, they have not yet returned home, raising concerns about the incident's implications for bilateral relations.