The Libyan Football Association has blamed “logistic challenge” for the reported mistreatment of Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles and their delegates on arrival in the north African country for the Matchday 4 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
The Super Eagles, which have now been pulled out of the match scheduled for Tuesday, lead Group D of the qualifiers having picked seven points from three matches, and its delegates were en route Benghazi for the game when their chartered aircraft was reportedly diverted mid-flight to Al Abraq, a small airport typically reserved for hajj operations. Al-Abraq is 236 kilometres away from Benghazi, venue of the match.
What followed was a frustrating 12-hour ordeal at Al Abraq International Airport in Al Abraq, with no official of the Libya FA on hand to receive the Nigerian delegation.
Reacting via an official statement released on their official account on X, the Libyan FA said: “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 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”.
