FG Monitoring Super Eagles Situation At Libyan Airport- Minister

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that it is in contact with Nigeria’s Mission in Libya following the unexpected diversion of the Super Eagles’ flight. The national football team was on their way to Benghazi for the second leg of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya, scheduled for Tuesday.

Mid-flight, the plane was rerouted to Al Abraq, a small airport primarily used for hajj operations, leaving the team stranded without immediate assistance. The Libyan Football Federation has yet to provide transportation, worsening the situation.

In response, Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar addressed the public via his X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, assuring that efforts are underway to resolve the issue and assist the team. He mentioned that by early Monday morning, around 6 a.m., the Nigerian contingent had been provided with internet access and essential supplies.
However, Tuggar expressed frustration over the delay in securing travel authorization from Libyan authorities to allow the team to proceed to Bayda City, where the Al Abraq airport is located. The Ministry is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the team’s safe and timely arrival.

Tuggar wrote, “I have been closely monitoring the Super Eagles’ situation in Libya. Through the Head of the Nigerian Mission in Tripoli, Amb. Stephen Anthony Awuru, contact has been maintained with the NFF and Libyan authorities since last night. Unfortunately, Libyan authorities have not yet granted permission for the Nigerian Mission to travel to Bayda City.”

Meanwhile, the Head of the Nigerian Community in Benghazi, Morris Eromosele, arrived early Monday with supplies and internet access for the team.

The situation has drawn widespread criticism, with many Nigerians demanding the immediate return of the Super Eagles and expressing disappointment over the delayed response from the Confederation of African Football.