Libya: “We faced similar difficulties in Nigeria without accusations”

Libya: “We faced similar difficulties in Nigeria without accusations

The Libya Football Federation (LFF) has addressed the challenges currently facing the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

It was reported that the Nigerian players have been stranded in the North African country for over 14 hours.

READ ALSO: NFF withdraws from AFCON qualifier match against Libya

After Nigeria’s victory over Libya in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Friday, a return leg for the ongoing AFCON 2025 Qualifier has been scheduled for Benghazi, Libya, on Tuesday.

Ahead of the return leg, the Nigerian team traveled to Benghazi via a chartered flight on Sunday.

However, the flight was diverted from its initial destination about an hour before landing. The Nigerian players ended up at Al Abraq International Airport, which is typically used only for hajj operations.

Upon landing, the NFF arranged for a road trip to the match venue due to the absence of Libyan Football Federation officials. However, airport authorities did not permit the chartered bus to enter the airport.

As a result of these developments, the Super Eagles have decided not to play the match and will instead return home.

In a statement released on Monday morning, the Libya Football Federation (LFF) responded, stating that it is incorrect to suggest there is a deliberate attempt to frustrate the Nigerian team.

“We are deeply concerned about the recent reports regarding 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 suggesting 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 or 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 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.”

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

In a tweet on Monday morning, Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar stated that Libyan authorities failed to authorize the Nigerian Mission’s trip to Bayda City, where the airport is located.

In a post on X, he stated, “I have been closely monitoring the situation involving the Super Eagles in Libya. Through the Head of the Nigerian Mission in Tripoli, Libya, Ambassador Stephen Anthony Awuru, the Mission has maintained contact with the NFF and the Libyan authorities since last night. Despite these efforts, Libyan authorities have not yet authorized the Nigerian Mission’s trip to Bayda City, where Al Abraq Airport is located.”

Proofreading by Uchechi Ojo, Sub-editor at Neptune Prime. 

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