Libyan Football Federation president resigns
Abdelhakim Al-Shalmani, President of the Libyan Football Federation, announced his resignation during a regular meeting of the Federation’s General Assembly.
According to report from an English and Arabic online newspaper based in Tripoli, the decision was made on Sunday and reported on Monday.
His resignation comes amid growing tensions surrounding the treatment of the Nigerian national team ahead of a crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
Al-Shalmani stated, “I do not want to be part of the failure in Libyan sports.”
Addressing the assembly on Sunday, 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.
READ ALSO: Super Eagles return to Nigeria following Libya stalemate
“I have a history with the International, Arab, and African Federations, 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, faced “inhumane treatment” upon arrival in the country.
The team, held at an abandoned airport for over 15 hours, has resolved not to play the match, citing safety concerns.
Nigeria Football Federation Director of Communications Ademola Olajire confirmed that the team would fly back home.
“Players have resolved not to play the match any longer, as NFF officials are making plans to fly the team back home,” Olajire stated.
However, the Libyan Football Federation addressed the circumstances behind the extended delay at Al Abraq International Airport, attributing the situation to routine air traffic and logistical challenges rather than deliberate foul play.
In a statement on Monday via X, the LFF sought to clarify the events, emphasizing that the diversion of the Nigerian team’s flight was not intended as a hostile act.
“We firmly reject any claims that suggest foul play or sabotage in this situation,” the LFF said.
Meanwhile, in the most recent development, Super Eagles players and officials have reportedly been set to depart from Libya.
This was disclosed by a sports enthusiast identified as Pooja Media via his X handle on Monday.
He wrote, “Super Eagles players and all officials are boarding to fly out of Libya to Nigeria. Thank God.”
Confirming this, a player, Bruno Onyemaechi, wrote, “Me and Libya, I don wash my hands commot. Nothing concerns me and una again. Thank God I’m going back.”
Proofreading by Uchechi Ojo, Sub-editor at Neptune Prime.
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