Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has condemned Libya’s ill-treatment of the Super Eagles, who were stranded at Al Abaq Airport for over 13 hours without basic necessities.
The team’s flight was diverted to the remote airport, forcing a risky three-hour road trip to the match venue, amidst Libya’s unstable situation. Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong described the Libyan authorities’ actions as “disgraceful” and “mind games.”
Details of the ordeal emerged as the team, originally scheduled to play Libya’s Mediterranean Knights at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium in Benina, was left unattended at the airport. Libyan authorities initially denied permission and aviation fuel for the team’s chartered flight to return to Nigeria.
Intense pressure prompted the Libyan government to clear the Nigerian flight, allowing the team’s safe return. The Federal Government intervened, sending necessary supplies, while Ministers Yusuf Tuggar and John Enoch closely monitored the situation and escalated the matter.
The Super Eagles’ safe return was confirmed by sports journalist Adepoju Tobi Samuel and player Bruno Onyemaechi, who expressed relief and gratitude.
