The Libya Football Federation (LFF) has addressed the ongoing situation involving the Super Eagles of Nigeria, who have been stranded in Libya for over 14 hours due to flight issues.
The Nigerian team was in Libya for the return leg of their AFCON 2025 Qualifier against Libya, scheduled to take place in Benghazi on Tuesday, following Nigeria’s victory in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The Super Eagles were traveling to Benghazi via a chartered flight on Sunday but were diverted about an hour before landing.
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The flight landed at Al Abraq International Airport, a facility primarily used for hajj operations, instead of their intended destination.
Without the presence of Libyan Football Federation (LFF) officials, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) made alternative arrangements to transport the team by road.
However, local airport authorities did not permit the bus to enter the airport, leaving the Nigerian players stranded.
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In response to the developments, the Super Eagles decided not to play the match and instead sought to return to Nigeria.
However, in a statement released on Monday, the LFF refuted claims that the Nigerian team was being deliberately frustrated.
The statement expressed concern over the situation but emphasized that the diversion of the flight was due to routine air traffic control procedures, logistical challenges, or security checks, which are common in international air travel.
The LFF clarified that the rerouting was not intentional, and rejected any suggestions of foul play or sabotage.
They highlighted that just last week, the Libyan national team had encountered similar challenges upon their arrival in Nigeria but chose not to accuse Nigerian authorities of any misconduct.
“Football is about unity, and we uphold the values of fairness and mutual respect,” the LFF stated.
“We have always prided ourselves on our hospitality and have never treated visiting teams unfairly.”
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, offered a contrasting view, noting that Libyan authorities had not granted the Nigerian Mission permission to travel to Bayda City, where the airport is located.
