The Libyan government has declined a request from Nigeria to allow its diplomatic mission to visit the Super Eagles, who are currently stranded at Abraq International Airport in Bayda City, Libya.
In a statement issued on Monday, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, confirmed the situation, explaining that despite ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Mission in Tripoli, led by Ambassador Stephen Anthony Awuru, permission to visit the team at the airport has not yet been granted by the Libyan authorities.
“We have been in contact with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and the Libyan authorities since last night,” Mr. Tuggar said, “but authorization for the Mission’s trip to Bayda City is still pending.”
However, the Nigerian government has taken steps to address the situation. The Head of the Nigerian Community in Benghazi, Mr. Morris Eromosele, arrived at the airport early Monday morning with essential supplies, including internet access, to assist the stranded team.
The Super Eagles’ ordeal comes just 48 hours before their crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier against the Mediterranean Knights, scheduled for Tuesday. The team had arrived in Libya on Sunday after a chartered flight from Uyo, Nigeria, but were left stranded when their flight was unexpectedly diverted for undisclosed reasons.
The situation worsened when it became clear that while transportation had been arranged for the team in Benghazi, no alternative arrangements were made at Abraq International Airport by the Libyan Football Association. Matters were further complicated when airport authorities locked the gates, preventing the team from leaving the premises.
The Nigerian government continues to monitor the situation closely and is awaiting further developments.
