Ministry of Foreign Affairs Debunks Reports of Diplomatic Summons in Portugal

The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rejected claims that the Acting Head of Mission in Portugal was summoned by Portuguese authorities over the movement of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft for scheduled maintenance.

Ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa told journalists on Friday in Abuja that the circulating reports are entirely false and lack any basis in fact.

“The alleged summoning of our Acting Head of Mission in Lisbon over a Nigerian Air Force plane is misinformation,” Ebienfa said, emphasizing that there is no truth to the online claims.

The statement comes after heightened attention on the C-130 aircraft, which made an unplanned landing in Burkina Faso earlier this week, prompting speculation about its operations in Europe.

Officials confirmed that the aircraft’s maintenance in Portugal remains on schedule and that all diplomatic and operational protocols are being strictly followed.

Ebienfa urged Nigerians and media outlets to exercise caution when sharing information online, warning against the spread of unverified reports that could cause unnecessary alarm.

The ministry reiterated its commitment to accurate communication and transparency in Nigeria’s international engagements, assuring the public that no diplomatic tensions exist regarding the aircraft’s movement.

Authorities continue to monitor developments closely, ensuring that Nigerian personnel and assets abroad operate within established regulations and procedures.