Libya reacts to Super Eagles ‘hostage’ situation, says delay at airport normal

Libya Football Federation (LFF) has broken its silence on the difficulties that the Super Eagles of Nigeria are currently facing in its country.

This newspaper had reported how the Nigerian stars have been stranded in the North African Country for over 14 hours.

Following Nigeria’s defeat of Libya in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Friday,  a return leg for the ongoing AFCON 2025 Qualifier was fixed for Benghazi, Libya, on Tuesday.

Ahead of the return leg, the Nigerian team for Benghazi via a chartered flight, on Sunday.

However, the flight was diverted from the their initial destination about an hour to landing.
The Nigerian players had to land at the Al Abraq International Airport, which is only used for hajj operations.

After landing, the NFF made arrangements for the trip by road to the venue of the match following the absence of officials of the Libyan Football Federation.

However, officials at the airport did not allow the chartered bus to enter the airport.

Following the developments, the Super Eagles have resolved not to play the match any longer but to return home.

But responding in a statement on Monday morning, the Libya Football Federation (LFF) said it was incorrect to say there is 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.”

“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 Federal Government’s position on the row.

In a tweet, on Monday morning, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, said Libyan authorities failed to authorise Nigerian Mission’s trip to Bayda City, where the airport is located.

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.”