Nigeria’s Sports Development Minister John Enoh has condemned the antics of Libyan authorities, who held the Super Eagles and their officials hostage at Al Abaq Airport.
The incident occurred after the Nigerian aircraft, originally en route Benghazi, was diverted to another city over a two-hour drive from the intended destination, just an hour before landing.
Noting that it caused significant distress to the Super Eagles players and officials who were left stranded and subjected to unnecessary delays, Enoh expressed deep concern over the poor treatment of the team, particularly as they were in Libya for an international engagement.
Describing the Libyan authorities’ action as deeply disturbing and completely unacceptable, the Minister emphasized that the safety and welfare of the Super Eagles and their officials remain the government’s top priority.
He assured Nigerians that the Ministry of Sports Development is working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, relevant diplomatic channels, and other stakeholders to ensure the immediate and safe release of the team and their safe passage to their destination.
The Minister further called on the Libyan authorities to respect international sporting relations and the fundamental rights of athletes and officials traveling for official purposes, stressing that sports diplomacy is a vital tool for fostering global unity, and such incidents should not be allowed to occur again.
The Super Eagles are billed to face their Libyan opponents in a return leg of their Morocco 2025 AFCON Qualifying tie at the martyrs of Benina stadium, 19 kilometres east of Benghazi on Tuesday.
(Editor : Okechukwu Eze)
