The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that it is actively working with the Nigerian Mission in Libya following the unexpected diversion of the Super Eagles’ flight ahead of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya.
The incident occurred while the team was en route to Benghazi for the second leg of their qualifying series, scheduled for Tuesday.
The Super Eagles’ flight was diverted mid-air to Al Abraq, a small airport primarily used for hajj operations, leaving the Nigerian football team stranded without immediate assistance.
The Libyan Football Federation has yet to provide transportation for the team, further complicating the situation.
In response to the development, Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, took to X (formerly Twitter) on Monday to provide an update on the issue.
He assured the public that efforts are underway to assist the team and ensure their safety.
Tuggar revealed that the Nigerian contingent was provided with internet access and essential supplies by early Monday morning, around 6 a.m.
However, the minister expressed frustration over delays in obtaining necessary travel authorizations from the Libyan authorities to move the team to Bayda City, where Al Abraq airport is located.
“I have been closely monitoring the situation involving the Super Eagles in Libya. Through the Head of the 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 authorised the Nigerian Mission’s trip to Bayda City, where the airport is located,” Tuggar wrote.
The ministry, in collaboration with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and the Nigerian Mission in Libya, continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure the Super Eagles’ safe and timely arrival at their destination. Tuggar also confirmed that Mr. Morris Eromosele, the Head of the Nigerian Community in Benghazi, arrived at the airport early Monday morning to assist the team with necessary supplies.
“In the meantime, the Head of the Nigerian Community in Benghazi, Mr. Morris Eromosele, arrived at the location at 6 a.m. this morning with necessary supplies and internet access. We will continue to follow developments and await a report for further action,” Tuggar added.
The situation has sparked widespread criticism, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the delay in response from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Libyan authorities. Some have called for the immediate return of the Super Eagles to Nigeria due to the logistical and safety challenges they have faced.
As of this report, the Super Eagles remain stranded at Al Abraq airport, while efforts continue to resolve the situation and enable the team to proceed with their AFCON qualifier.
