The Libya Football Federation (LFF) has addressed the ongoing difficulties faced by the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, who have been stranded in the country for over 14 hours.
The incident occurred ahead of the return leg of the AFCON 2025 Qualifier against Libya, scheduled for Tuesday, October 15, 2024, in Benghazi.
Following Nigeria’s victory over Libya in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Friday, October 11, 2024, the team departed for Benghazi via a chartered flight on Sunday, October 13, 2024.
However, about an hour before landing, the flight was unexpectedly diverted to Al Abraq International Airport, a facility primarily used for Hajj operations, located hours away from Benghazi.
After landing, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) arranged for a road trip to the match venue, but airport officials prevented the chartered bus from accessing the airport premises.
With no representatives from the Libyan Football Federation present to assist, the Super Eagles were left stranded, leading the team to resolve not to proceed with the match and seek a return home.
In response to the situation, the LFF issued a statement on Monday, October 14, 2024, refuting claims that there was a deliberate attempt 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,” the statement read.
The LFF attributed the incident to routine air traffic control protocols, security checks, or logistical challenges, which they said can sometimes affect international air travel.
The federation expressed regret over the inconvenience and emphasised that there was no intent to disrupt the team’s preparations for the qualifier.
“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 prioritised 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 honour 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,” the statement concluded.
