African qualifiers involving Nigeria and Libya end in disarray. The Super Eagles return home after over 16 hours harrowing experience at Libyan airport.
The Super Eagles are returning to Nigeria after spending more than 16 hours in “detention” at a Libyan airport. Finally, the Libyan government granted permission for the Nigerian flight to leave Al Abraq International Airport, carrying the players and officials.
Nigerian sports journalist Adepoju Tobi Samuel broke the news on social media. He wrote, “After pressure from several quarters, the Libyan government has agreed to issue clearance for ValueJet Airline to fly and sell aviation fuel to the airline.”
He added, “They came with a gimmick to issue a pre-clearance to land in Benghazi first before we fly to Nigeria. The same Benghazi that was busy yesterday.” The NFF insisted the clearance must allow for a direct flight back to Nigeria.
Another sports enthusiast, Pooja Media, confirmed the news on his X handle. He wrote, “Super Eagles players and all officials are boarding to fly out of Libya to Nigeria. Thank God.”
Towards African qualifiers: Challenges faced by the Super Eagles
Before this development, Libyan authorities reportedly denied ValueJet, the Super Eagles’ chartered flight, permission and aviation fuel for the return trip. The situation raised concerns about the team’s well-being.
In response, the Federal Government announced it had sent “necessary supplies” to the Super Eagles amid the crisis. Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar stated he was closely monitoring the situation. He said, “I have been closely monitoring the situation involving the Super Eagles in Libya.”
Despite these efforts, Libyan authorities refused to authorize the Nigerian Mission’s trip to Bayda City, where the airport is located.
Background of the situation
The Eagles had traveled to Libya on Sunday morning for their 2025 African qualifiers against the Mediterranean Knights. Libya was set to host the three-time African champions at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium, just 10 kilometers from Benghazi. However, reports indicated that they were diverted to a different city.
Sports Minister John Enoh escalated the concerns regarding the treatment of the Super Eagles by the Libyan authorities to the relevant parties. He emphasized the need for better coordination and communication during such international events.
Clarifications from Libyan authorities
In response to the situation, the Libya Football Federation (LFF) claimed there was no intent to hinder the Nigerian team. They expressed their concern over the reports surrounding the flight diversion. The LFF stated, “We regret any inconvenience caused. Such incidents can occur due to routine air traffic control protocols, security checks, or logistical challenges.”
The LFF added, “These are standard procedures at airports worldwide. Delays or rerouting, though unfortunate, are not uncommon.” They emphasized their respect for Nigeria, assuring that the flight diversion was not intentional. The LFF firmly rejected claims of foul play. “We did not make public accusations nor question the integrity of the Nigerian authorities,” it claimed.
They also highlighted their commitment to hospitality. “In Libya, we pride ourselves on our welcoming nature. We have always prioritized treating all visiting teams with respect and dignity.” The LFF reiterated their hope that misunderstandings could be resolved through goodwill.
“We continue to promote the spirit of unity, sportsmanship, and friendship in football,” they added. Their statement reflects a desire to foster positive relations between nations, especially in the context of the African qualifiers.
African qualifiers: CAF finally reacts over Nigeria-Libya issue
This incident is now under investigation by CAF’s Disciplinary Board. A statement on the CAF website highlighted these concerns.
“The Confederation Africaine de Football (CAF) has been in contact with the Libyan and Nigerian authorities after it was informed that the Nigerian National Football Team (‘Super Eagles’) and their technical team were stranded in distressing conditions for several hours at an airport that they were allegedly instructed to land at by the Libyan authorities.”
The statement continued, “The matter has been referred to the CAF Disciplinary Board for investigation. Appropriate action will be taken against those who violated the CAF Statutes and Regulations.”
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