JUST IN: We faced similar difficulties in Nigeria but didn’t make accusations — Libya

The Libya Football Federation (LFF) has opened up over the recent challenges faced by the Super Eagles of Nigeria, who were stranded in the country for the AFCON 2025 Qualifier match.

Newsband reports that the contingent spent over 13 hours stranded at Al-Abraq Airport after being denied entry into the country.

The team had initially traveled via a chartered flight from Nigeria on Sunday, preparing for the return leg of the qualifier following their victory over Libya in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Friday.

Despite prior clearance to land in Benghazi, Libyan authorities reportedly barred the team from entering, locking the airport gates and leaving the players without access to food, water, or communication

Meanwhile, frustrated by the logistical setbacks and the absence of Libyan Football Federation officials to assist, the Super Eagles decided to boycott the match and return home.

But in response to the growing tension, the LFF released a statement on Monday morning, dismissing claims of any deliberate attempt to hinder the Nigerian team’s preparations.

The federation clarified that the incident was not an orchestrated effort to frustrate the Super Eagles, and they are working to address the issue.

The statement reads, “We are deeply concerned about the recent reports surrounding the diversion of the Nigerian national team’s flight ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Libya.”

“While we regret any inconvenience caused, it is essential to note that such incidents can occur due to routine air traffic control protocols, security checks, or logistical challenges that affect international air travel.

“These are standard procedures at airports worldwide, and delays or rerouting, though unfortunate, are not uncommon. We have the utmost respect for our Nigerian counterparts and want to reassure them that the diversion of their flight was not intentional.

“There are no grounds to accuse the Libyan security teams or the Libyan Football Federation of deliberately orchestrating this incident. Such actions are inconsistent with our values and principles.

“We firmly reject any claims that suggest foul play or sabotage in this situation. It is important to highlight that just last week, our own national team faced significant challenges upon our arrival in Nigeria for the third match of the Africa Cup of Nations qualification.

“Despite the difficulties we encountered, we did not make public accusations nor question the integrity of the Nigerian authorities. Football, in its essence, unites nations, and we are committed to upholding the spirit of fairness and mutual respect both on and off the field.

“In Libya, we pride ourselves on our hospitality and our welcoming nature. We have always prioritized treating all visiting teams, including our African brothers and other international delegations, with the respect and dignity they deserve.

“Hosting these events is a great honor for us, and we strive to ensure that all teams feel safe and respected as our guests. This commitment to equality and hospitality is a core aspect of our culture and tradition.

“We hope that this misunderstanding can be resolved with understanding and goodwill. Our doors are open to our Nigerian brothers and all African teams, and we continue to promote the spirit of unity, sportsmanship, and friendship in the world of football.”

However, LFF’s statement contradicts the Federal Government’s position on the matter.

In a post on his official X handle on Monday morning, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, said Libyan authorities failed to authorise Nigerian Mission’s trip to Bayda City, where the airport is located.

“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. Despite efforts, Libyan authorities have not yet authorized the Nigerian Mission’s trip to Bayda City, where the Al Abraq airport is located”, the post reads.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook