BREAKING: Libya Football Federation Breaks Silence On Super Eagles Of Nigeria Ordeal

The Libya Football Federation (LFF) has addressed the challenges the Super Eagles of Nigeria have faced in the country.

Nigerian players have been stranded in Libya for over 14 hours.

After Nigeria’s victory against Libya in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Friday, the return leg of the AFCON 2025 Qualifier was scheduled for Tuesday in Benghazi, Libya.

The Nigerian team was set to fly to Benghazi via a chartered flight on Sunday.

Read Also: Victor Boniface Shares Video Showing Nature Of Bus Sent To Pick Up Super Eagles Team At Airport In Libya

However, about an hour before landing, their flight was diverted from its original destination.

Instead, the team landed at Al Abraq International Airport, which primarily serves hajj operations.

With no representatives from the Libyan Football Federation present, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) arranged for ground transportation to the match venue. However, airport authorities prevented the chartered bus from accessing the airport.

Due to these complications, the Super Eagles decided not to proceed with the match and expressed their intention to return to Nigeria.

Read Also: Troost-Ekong ‘Attacks’ Libyan Authorities After Ill-Treatment [PHOTOS]

In a statement released on Monday morning, the Libya Football Federation (LFF) denied claims of deliberately attempting to frustrate the Nigerian team.

“We are deeply concerned about the recent reports surrounding the diversion of the Nigerian national team’s flight ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Libya.”

“While we regret any inconvenience caused, it is essential to note that such incidents can occur due to routine air traffic control protocols, security checks, or logistical challenges that affect international air travel.

“These are standard procedures at airports worldwide, and delays or rerouting, though unfortunate, are not uncommon. We have the utmost respect for our Nigerian counterparts and want to reassure them that the diversion of their flight was not intentional.

“There are no grounds to accuse the Libyan security teams or the Libyan Football Federation of deliberately orchestrating this incident. Such actions are inconsistent with our values and principles.

“We firmly reject any claims that suggest foul play or sabotage in this situation. It is important to highlight that just last week, our own national team faced significant challenges upon our arrival in Nigeria for the third match of the Africa Cup of Nations qualification.

“Despite the difficulties we encountered, we did not make public accusations nor question the integrity of the Nigerian authorities. Football, in its essence, unites nations, and we are committed to upholding the spirit of fairness and mutual respect both on and off the field.

“In Libya, we pride ourselves on our hospitality and our welcoming nature. We have always prioritized treating all visiting teams, including our African brothers and other international delegations, with the respect and dignity they deserve.

“Hosting these events is a great honor for us, and we strive to ensure that all teams feel safe and respected as our guests. This commitment to equality and hospitality is a core aspect of our culture and tradition.

“We hope that this misunderstanding can be resolved with understanding and goodwill. Our doors are open to our Nigerian brothers and all African teams, and we continue to promote the spirit of unity, sportsmanship, and friendship in the world of football.”

LFF’s statement contradicts the position of the Federal Government regarding the ongoing dispute.

In a tweet on Monday morning, Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar stated that the Libyan authorities did not authorize the Nigerian Mission’s trip to Bayda City, where the airport is situated.

in a post via X, said, “I have been closely monitoring the situation involving the Super Eagles in Libya. Through the Head of Nigerian Mission in Tripoli, Libya, Amb. Stephen Anthony Awuru, the Mission has maintained contact with the NFF, and the Libyan authorities since last night. Despite efforts, Libyan authorities have not yet authorized the Nigerian Mission’s trip to Bayda City, where the Al Abraq airport is located.”

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