The Super Eagles of Nigeria have found themselves in a difficult situation ahead of their crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier match in Libya. The Nigerian football team, which is preparing for its second leg match on Tuesday, has faced serious challenges in their travel arrangements, prompting calls for intervention from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), has condemned the treatment of the Super Eagles by Libyan authorities. She highlighted the risks associated with traveling in Libya, especially by road.
In a statement released by NIDCOM’s Director of Media, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, it was revealed that the Super Eagles’ flight was diverted to an airport far from their intended destination.
Dabiri-Erewa expressed her deep concern over the implications of this diversion. She stated, “The implication of the diversion will now be another three hours of road travel to the main venue of the match, not minding the risk of road travel in Libya, considering the situation of the war-torn country.”
Libya has faced numerous challenges over the past decade, including political instability and violence. These factors have made road travel highly dangerous, and many international bodies advise against it. The NIDCOM Chairman urged the Ministry of Sports and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to prioritize the safety of the players.
The Super Eagles left Nigeria on Sunday, hopeful for a smooth travel experience. However, upon arriving in Libya, they encountered numerous obstacles. Reports indicate that the team and other passengers were stranded at the airport for more than 13 hours without food, water, or proper communication.
Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the urgency of the situation. She stated, “Already, the players, the pilots, and others on board the flight had been stranded and subjected to inhuman treatment at the airport for over 13 hours without water, food, rest, and other means of communication.”
Despite the clear danger, the players were informed that they would need to travel by road to reach their destination. There were no provisions made by Libyan authorities for their transport. Efforts by the NFF to secure alternative arrangements were reportedly frustrated, leaving the team with no viable options.
Given the severity of the situation, Dabiri-Erewa called on CAF to address the matter urgently. “I appeal to the Confederation of African Football to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves,” she said.
She highlighted the need for CAF to take action to ensure that players’ safety is guaranteed during international matches. This is especially crucial in countries like Libya, where travel conditions can be hazardous.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the federal government has already sent supplies to the Super Eagles in Libya. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, confirmed that “necessary supplies” had been dispatched to the team to support them during their time of need.
