Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has spoken out about the country’s national football team, the Super Eagles, being stranded in Libya.
The team arrived in Libya on Sunday for their AFCON 2025 qualifier match but were diverted to Al Abraq International Airport instead of Benghazi Airport, where they were originally scheduled to land.
This unexpected change left the players and officials stranded without any reception or transport from the host Libyan Football Federation.
Tuggar stated that the Nigerian mission has been in constant communication with the Nigerian Football Federation and Libyan authorities since the ordeal began, but Libyan authorities have yet to grant permission for the Nigerian mission to travel to Bayda City, where the airport is located.
However, Tugger revealed that Morris Eromosele, head of the Nigerian community in Benghazi, arrived at the airport in the morning with essential supplies and internet access.
The minister also assured that the federal government will continue monitoring the situation while awaiting a comprehensive report for further action.
“I have been closely monitoring the situation involving the Super Eagles in Libya. Through the Head of Nigerian Mission in Tripoli, Libya, Amb. Stephen Anthony Awuru, the Mission has maintained contact with the NFF, and the Libyan authorities since last night,” the statement reads.
“Despite efforts, Libyan authorities have not yet authorized the Nigerian Mission’s trip to Bayda City, where the airport is located. In the meantime, the Head of the Nigerian Community in Benghazi, Mr. Morris Eromosele, arrived at the location at 6 am this morning with necessary supplies and internet access.
“We will continue to follow developments and await a report for further action.”
The NFF earlier revealed it was planning to fly the team back home after players resolved not to play the match any longer.
CAF has yet to release an official statement about the situation in Libya.
