President of the Libyan Football Federation, Abdelhakim Al-Shalmani, has resigned from his position following the Super Eagles of Nigeria airport ordeal.
Al-Shalmani stepped down from his position during a regular meeting of the Federation’s General Assembly.
According to The Libya Observer, an English and Arabic online newspaper based in Tripoli, Libya, Al-Shalmani announced his resignation in a statement.
He was quoted as saying, “I do not want to be part of the failure in Libyan sports.
“We faced difficulties during the previous period.
“I thank all members of the General Assembly, and I forgive everyone from all segments of the sports sector.
“I have a history in the International, Arab, and African Federation, and no one can deny that.”
The resignation comes after the Super Eagles of Nigeria accused Libyan of subjecting the team to ‘inhumane treatment’ upon arrival in the country for Tuesday’s 2025 AFCON qualifier.
The team, held at an abandoned airport for over 15 hours, later resolved not to play the match, citing safety concerns.
Nigeria Football Federation director of communications, Ademola Olajire, confirmed that the team flew back home.
“Players have resolved not to play the match any longer as the players have returned back home,” Olajire stated.
However, the Libyan Football Federation addressed the circumstances behind the extended delay at Al Abraq International Airport and attributed the situation to routine air traffic and logistical challenges rather than deliberate foul play.
In a statement via X, the LFF sought to clarify the events, emphasising that the diversion of the Nigerian team’s flight was not intended as a hostile act.
“We firmly reject any claims that suggest foul play or sabotage in this situation,” the LFF said.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
