Nigeria releases Ukrainian plane   

Lagos, 05 Aug-(ANA)-The Nigerian government has ordered the release of the arms-carrying Ukrainian aircraft almost two months after it was grounded at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in northern Nigeria's Kano State.

The aircraft was released on the orders of President Umaru Yar'Adua, according to a report by the Lagos-based Compass newspaper.

The plane had been intercepted by security officials on June 17 when it stopped over to refuel and was found to be carrying arms and ammunition.

Upon interrogation, the crew said the consignment was meant for the government in Equatorial Guinea. (ANA)

FA/ANA/05 August 2009---