The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has released a detailed statement addressing the Super Eagles‘ recent ordeal in Libya, where the national team was held hostage for 16 hours at Al Abraq International Airport. The Super Eagles had arrived in Libya for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers second-leg match but faced unexpected challenges upon landing.
According to the NFF’s statement, Libyan authorities initially diverted the team’s flight mid-air before forcing them to remain at the airport for several hours. The NFF described the situation as a “dark game” against Nigeria, stressing the unnecessary and dangerous treatment of the players and staff.
The Super Eagles were stranded, unable to proceed with their journey, despite attempts by Nigerian officials and growing pressure from fans on social media. The prolonged delay raised concerns for the safety and well-being of the team, as the standoff continued into the night. Social media platforms quickly became flooded with messages from concerned fans and Nigerian football enthusiasts, urging for a swift resolution.
After hours of uncertainty, the intervention of officials and mounting public outcry finally led to the team’s release. The Super Eagles were then permitted to leave Libya and have since safely returned to Nigeria. In response to the ordeal, the team has decided to boycott the scheduled match in Benghazi.
The NFF’s statement has sparked widespread reactions, with many expressing their relief at the team’s safe return while also criticizing the Libyan authorities for their actions. The Nigerian football community has rallied in support of the Super Eagles, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety and security of athletes when representing the country abroad.
The NFF’s statement highlighted that they are taking the matter seriously and are working with relevant international football organizations to investigate the situation further. The federation has also expressed its gratitude to the fans and officials who advocated for the team’s release, acknowledging the collective effort that led to their safe return.
As the Super Eagles recover from their ordeal, questions remain regarding the circumstances that led to their detainment and the future of Nigeria’s participation in the qualifiers. The NFF’s commitment to ensuring such an incident does not repeat is clear, as they continue to stand behind their players and staff.
Do you really think the NFF handled the Super Eagles situation well in Libya? Im not convinced. #ControversialOpinion
I dont buy the NFFs statement. Something fishy about the Super Eagles ordeal in Libya. Smells like a cover-up to me.
Stop with the conspiracy theories. The team faced challenges, it happens. No need for drama.
I dont get why theyre complaining, they chose to play in Libya. Toughen up or stay home. 🤷♂️
Honestly, maybe the Super Eagles should toughen up. 16 hours in Libya? Please, thats nothing compared to real hardships.
I think the Super Eagles should have just flown themselves out of Libya using their superpowers. Who needs NFF anyway?
I dont see why the NFF is getting so much flak for the Super Eagles ordeal in Libya. They did their best.
NFFs best wasnt good enough. Super Eagles deserved better management and support.
I dont see why the Super Eagles should get special treatment. They knew the risks when they went to Libya.
I dont get why people are making a big deal out of this. Its not like they were stranded on a deserted island.
I think the Super Eagles shouldve just flown on their own private jet. Why rely on NFF for travel arrangements?
I dont get why theyre making such a big deal out of this. Other teams go through worse travel situations all the time.
I think the Super Eagles should have just flown back on their own private jet. NFF needs to step up their game!
I think the NFF should have done more to prevent the Super Eagles ordeal in Libya. They need to prioritize player safety.
Players should take responsibility for their choices too. Safety is a shared effort.
I think the Super Eagles should have just flown on eagles to Libya instead of dealing with all that hassle!
Flying on eagles might be a bit impractical. Lets stick to planes for now.