The Federal Government has sent relief materials to the Super Eagles following the team’s hostile treatment by Libyan authorities.
The North African country’s officials have subjected the Nigerian contingent to a hostage situation as they were locked up at the Al Abraq International Airport in Libya for over 12 hours after they arrived on Sunday and were unable to reach their hotel in Benghazi, which is three hours away.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) said in a statement on Monday that the plane conveying the team was diverted, leaving the players and officials stranded without any assistance from its Libyan counterpart which failed to provide transportation.
The federation has since withdrawn the team from Tuesday’s 2025 African Nations Cup (AFCON) qualifier slated for Benghazi.
In a statement in Abuja, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, said he had been monitoring the situation closely, and has temporarily sent some relief materials to the players.
The statement read: “I have been closely monitoring the situation involving the Super Eagles in Libya. Through the Head of the Nigerian Mission in Tripoli, Libya, Amb. Stephen Anthony Awuru, the Mission has maintained contact with the NFF, and the Libyan authorities since last night.
“Despite efforts, Libyan authorities have not yet authorized the Nigerian Mission’s trip to Bayda City, where the airport is located.
“In the meantime, the Head of the Nigerian Community in Benghazi, Mr. Morris Eromosele, arrived at the location at 6 am this morning with necessary supplies and internet access.
“We will continue to follow developments and await a report for further action.”