The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has refuted claims circulating in Libya that the Nigerian government apologized to its Libyan counterpart over the Super Eagles’ 15-hour airport detention in Libya. Tuggar made this clarification in a statement released on Wednesday, signed by his media aide, Alkasim Abdulkadir.
The statement responded to a report by Libya Observer, which alleged that Nigeria had apologized. Tuggar emphasized that the publication was an attempt to gain political leverage and misrepresented the actual events during his conversation with the East–based Libyan government’s Foreign Minister.
Abdulkadir clarified that at no point during the discussion did Tuggar apologize for any wrongdoing regarding the Libyan National Team‘s visit to Nigeria. He insisted that the report of mistreatment was inaccurate and did not reflect the reality of the situation.
The statement reads: “Nigeria did not Apologize to Libya over Super Eagles detention fiasco -Tuggar.” It further addressed the erroneous report published by Libya Observer on October 15, 2024, describing it as a political maneuver aimed at creating disaffection among continental football administrators and fans.
The Ministry‘s response underscores Nigeria’s position on the issue, dismissing the report as an attempt to manipulate the narrative for political gain. Tuggar’s clarification seeks to correct the misinformation and emphasize that Nigeria did not acknowledge or apologize for any alleged mistreatment of the Libyan team.
By setting the record straight, the Nigerian government aims to maintain diplomatic integrity and prevent misunderstandings that could affect international sports relations and the perception of the country‘s actions. The incident highlights the importance of clear communication between nations and the role of media in accurately reporting diplomatic affairs.
I find it hard to believe Nigeria didnt apologize. Diplomatic blunder or intentional snub? Whats the real story here?
Typical Nigerian arrogance. No surprise there. They need to own up to their mistakes.
I dont see why Nigeria should apologize. Its not like the Super Eagles caused any real harm. Lets move on.
I think the whole apology thing is blown out of proportion. Lets focus on the game, not political drama.
I dont see the big deal. Apologizing or not, its just a football team. Lets move on!
I dont see why Nigeria should apologize. Its not like they crashed a plane or something. Lets move on!
I dont see why Nigeria should apologize. The Super Eagles are national heroes, they deserve respect wherever they go!
Respect is earned through actions, not just titles. Apologizing shows humility and accountability.
I dont buy it! Nigeria should apologize, its basic manners. Minister needs a reality check. Whats next, denying gravity?
I dont see the big deal. Apology or not, lets move on. The Super Eagles have games to win! 🦅⚽ #NaijaPride
I dont buy it! Nigeria should apologize for the airport incident. Its basic courtesy, come on! What do you all think?
I think Nigeria should have apologized to Libya. Its basic courtesy, regardless of who was at fault. Lets be civil, people!
Apologies should be genuine, not forced. Lets focus on resolving issues constructively rather than just apologizing.
I think Nigeria should have apologized to Libya. Its just common courtesy, ya know? Lets be respectful, people!
Apologies are earned, not demanded. Nigeria has nothing to apologize for. Libya needs to move on.
I dont buy it! Nigeria shouldve apologized. Its basic manners, come on! Lets not be too proud.
I dont get why Nigeria should apologize for a simple airport incident. Lets move on, its not that deep.
Its about respect and professionalism. Apology shows maturity and accountability. Small gestures matter.
I dont buy it! Seems like a cover-up to me. Nigeria needs to take responsibility for their actions. #ApologizeToLibya
I dont see why Nigeria should apologize. It was just a misunderstanding. Lets move on and focus on the game!
I dont buy it! Nigeria should have apologized to Libya. Its basic human decency, Minister! Whats next, no apologies for anything?
I think Nigeria should have apologized to Libya. Its basic courtesy, come on! Lets not be so arrogant.
Why should Nigeria apologize? Libya has its own responsibilities too. Diplomacy works both ways.
I dont see the big deal. Apology or not, lets focus on improving relations between Nigeria and Libya moving forward.
I dont buy it! There must be more to the story. Nigeria should own up and apologize. What do you guys think?
I dont get the big deal. Why do countries need to apologize for every little thing? Move on, people!
Acknowledging past wrongs is crucial for healing and progress. Empathy, not ignorance, moves us forward.
Wow, why should Nigeria apologize? They were just celebrating! Libya needs to lighten up. Lets move on.
I dont buy it! Nigeria should have apologized. Its all about sportsmanship and setting a good example. Disappointing.
Its not always about apologizing. Some situations call for standing firm. Nigeria did nothing wrong.
I dont buy it! Apology or not, the real issue is why the Super Eagles were treated unfairly in the first place. #JusticeForSuperEagles
I dont buy it! Nigeria should have apologized. Its basic manners, come on! Lets show some respect.
I dont buy it! Nigeria should have apologized. Its basic courtesy. Minister needs a reality check. What do you think?
Apologies are overrated. Nigeria owes nothing. Minister is right on this one.
I dont think Nigeria owes Libya an apology. Its all blown out of proportion. Lets focus on more important issues.
How can you dismiss the importance of accountability and diplomacy? Every action matters.
I dont think Nigeria owes Libya an apology. They were just passionate about their team. Lets move on!
I dont buy it! Nigeria needs to own up and apologize. Its just common courtesy, man. No excuses!
Honestly, who even cares about this apology drama? Can we focus on more important issues in Nigeria? Priorities, people!
I dont think Nigeria owes Libya an apology. The Super Eagles were just having fun! Lets focus on more important things.
How can you dismiss sportsmanship and fair play? An apology is the least they can do.
I dont get why this is even a big deal. Apologize, dont apologize – who cares? Lets focus on the game!
I think Nigeria should have apologized to Libya. Its basic decency. Lets not make a big deal out of a simple gesture.