The Nigerian Minister of Sports, John Enoh, has sharply criticized the treatment of the Super Eagles football team by Libyan authorities ahead of their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. The incident occurred during the team’s arrival in Libya, where they were scheduled to compete against Libya in the second leg of the qualifiers. Instead of landing in Benghazi, the team was unexpectedly diverted to Al Abraq Airport, a smaller facility typically used for Hajj operations. This diversion left the players and officials stranded for over 15 hours without food, accommodation, or any assistance from the Libyan Football Federation, which failed to provide them with transportation or care, leading to a situation described by Enoh as almost akin to being held hostage.
In a public statement on social media, Enoh voiced his condemnation of the treatment meted out to the Nigerian team. He emphasized that the government and the safety of the players were his primary concerns, stating that the team was subjected to harsh conditions in a location far from their intended destination. He reported that they were surrounded by Libyan security forces, prevented from leaving the airport, and faced an uncomfortable situation in a mosquito-infested environment. The Minister’s urgent communication with various authorities, including the Foreign Affairs Minister and national security officials, highlighted the gravity of the situation, demonstrating a coordinated effort to ensure the safety and well-being of the Super Eagles.
Further complicating matters, the Minister declared that the players were experiencing psychological stress due to their ordeal. Enoh noted that, given the trauma and fears regarding their security, the team expressed doubts about their ability to take part in the match scheduled for the following day. He underscored the need for immediate action by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in response to these developments, stressing the need for the NFF President to lodge a formal complaint against the Libyan Football Federation for their failure to ensure the well-being of the visiting team.
Alongside his public declarations, Enoh reported close discussions with CAF leaders, where he insisted on prioritizing the safety of the Nigerian team over logistical concerns surrounding match participation. While CAF’s focus appeared to be on ensuring the continuation of the match, Enoh reiterated that the Nigerian government’s primary concern was the safe return of their national team. He indicated that harsh repercussions should be faced by the Libyan authorities for their unjust treatment of the Super Eagles, asserting that such behavior should not go unpunished.
Enoh’s comments resonate with wider concerns regarding the treatment of visiting sports teams, emphasizing the importance of hospitality and cooperation in international sporting events. His condemnation not only sought to ensure immediate measures for the Super Eagles but also aimed to underscore the need for respect and safety in the realm of international football. The Minister’s stance highlighted a call for change, affirming that incidents like the one experienced by the Super Eagles should remain isolated and addressed with utmost seriousness to prevent recurrence in the future.
In summary, the situation surrounding the Super Eagles’ unwarranted treatment by Libyan officials prompted urgent intervention and condemnation from the Nigerian Minister of Sports. With the safety of the team at stake, Enoh has taken the necessary steps to escalate the issue while calling for accountability from the Libyan Football Federation. His commitment to prioritizing the players’ well-being reaffirms the principles of sportsmanship and international diplomacy, stressing that the treatment of national teams goes beyond competition and should be rooted in mutual respect and safety.
