Libyan Football Federation president resigns amid feud with Nigeria

President of the Libyan Football Federation, Abdelhakim Al-Shalmani, announced his resignation during a regular meeting of the Federation’s General Assembly.

According to reports reaching Diaspora Digital Media on Monday evening, the decision was made before the Super Eagles of Nigeria arrived the country for the now aborted second leg of the 2025 African Cup of Nations qualifier against the North African country.

“I do not want to be part of the failure in Libyan sports,” Al-Shalmani was quoted.

Addressing the federation, Al-Shalmani reflected on the challenges faced during his tenure.

“We faced difficulties during the previous period,” he acknowledged, before expressing gratitude to his colleagues.

“I thank all members of the General Assembly, and I forgive everyone from all segments of the sports sector,” he added.

Despite the circumstances leading to his resignation, Al-Shalmani stood firm on his record of service.

“I have a history in the International, Arab and African Federation, and no one can deny that,” he added.

The resignation comes at a turbulent time for Libyan football.

The Nigerian national team, scheduled to play a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Libya on Tuesday, pulled out of the encounter, citing inhumane treatment by the host nation.

The team complained of being held hostage by Libyans authorities at the airport for over 15 hours.

CAF wades into feud

The Confederation of African Football (CAF), in a statement released on Monday, indicated that the body “has been in contact with the Libyan and Nigerian authorities after it had been informed that the Nigerian National Football Team (‘’Super Eagles’’) and their technical team were stranded in disturbing conditions for several hours at an airport that they were allegedly instructed to land by the Libyan authorities.”

“The matter has been referred to the CAF Disciplinary Board for investigation and appropriate action will be taken against those who violated the CAF Statutes and Regulations,” CAF statement added.

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