The situation faced by the Nigerian national team in Libya is deeply concerning and unacceptable. The team’s arrival for the AFCON 2025 Group D qualifier was met with negligence and disregard for their safety.
Diverted from Benghazi to Al Abaq Airport, the players and officials have been stranded for over 15 hours, with no food, accommodation, or basic necessities.
To make matters worse, they are confined to a mosquito-infested area under the watch of Libyan security in what can only be described as an appalling breach of sportsmanship and human decency.
The Nigerian Sports Minister has rightly condemned this treatment, highlighting the team’s “hostage-like” conditions.
While the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is focused on ensuring the match goes ahead, the Nigerian government’s priority is the safety and well-being of the Super Eagles.
This situation has caused significant psychological trauma to the players, and their safety is now paramount.
The Minister has called for a formal complaint to CAF, demanding serious consequences for the Libyan Football Federation.
Such behaviour can not be tolerated in international sports, where fairness and safety should be the bedrock.
Ensuring the team’s safe return must take precedence over the match, and this matter must be addressed urgently by CAF.
