The Nigeria Football Federation has provided details of the harrowing experience endured by the Super Eagles, who were stranded for over 18 hours at Al-Abraq International Airport in Libya ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

The Super Eagles departed Uyo on Sunday, October 13, for the reverse fixture against Libya after previously defeating them 1-0 in Uyo.

According to an NFF statement, the team made a brief stop in Kano for immigration clearance and refueling before their flight to Benghazi, which was scheduled to arrive around 8pm local time.

However, just before landing, Libyan air control denied entry and directed the pilot to divert to Al-Abraq Airport, despite his concerns over low fuel and inadequate landing conditions.

Upon arrival at Al-Abraq, the team found themselves stuck at an airport lacking basic infrastructure.

Immigration officials resorted to using mobile phones to scan passports, and no representative from the Libyan Football Federation was present to welcome the team or provide transportation to Benghazi, where their hotel rooms had been booked.

The NFF also noted that the Nigerian Embassy in Tripoli had requested to welcome the delegation upon arrival, but this was rejected by Libyan authorities. The Super Eagles spent the night in the airport lounge without food, water, or proper accommodations

NFF President expressed his disappointment, stating:

“We anticipated some shocks, but we did not expect these shenanigans. What I am seeing is despicable and has no place in football, which should foster excellent relationships among nations.”

At daybreak, Maurice Eromosele, president of the Nigerian community in Eastern Libya, arrived with croissants on behalf of the Nigerian Ambassador to Libya, Alhaji Muhammad Muhammad.

The delay in refueling further extended the team’s ordeal until the flight eventually departed Al-Abraq at 3:05 PM on Monday, bound for Kano.

Now back in Nigeria, the players are eager to move past this experience as they prepare to return to their clubs and focus on the upcoming AFCON qualifiers in November.

The incident has drawn global condemnation, with several clubs expressing support for the Super Eagles. Nantes tweeted:

“Courage to the @NGSuperEagles 🦅 We’re with you @Simon27Moses 👊”

Sevilla also extended their support, stating:

“Sending love and support to our players and the whole @NGSuperEagles squad 🇳🇬 Stay strong ❤️”

FIFPRO, the global football players’ union, called on all relevant authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the Nigerian team. The incident has resonated widely, with fans, as well as media outlets like ESPN, Fabrizio Romano, and Sky Sports, voicing their outrage.