President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the safe return of Super Eagles to the country after their ordeal in Libya ahead of the 2025 African Cup of Nations qualifier.
In a statement on Monday signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said he was moved by the inhuman treatment endured by the Super Eagles players and officials in Libya.
The President commended the players for keeping their spirits alive despite the excruciating ordeal in Libya.
The statement added, “President Tinubu expects the Disciplinary Board of the Confederation of African Football to conduct a thorough investigation and recommend appropriate action against those who wilfully violated the organisation’s Statutes and Regulations.
“President Tinubu also commended the proactive coordination between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Sports Development in addressing the unfortunate episode and ensuring the safe return of our players.
“The Nigerian leader recognises football’s unifying power in bringing nations and people together and views the treatment of our citizens as unsportsmanlike and inhumane, a stark contrast to the spirit of the game he deeply appreciates.
“He fervently calls on all lovers of the round-leather game and administrators to unite and work collaboratively to prevent and overcome such incidents in the future.”
PUNCH Online reports that the Super Eagles, who departed Nigeria on Sunday, had their flight unexpectedly diverted to a remote airport far from the match venue, resulting in an additional three-hour road journey to their destination.
The situation worsened as the players, pilots, and other personnel were stranded at the Libyan airport for over 13 hours without access to necessities like food, water, or a place to rest.
Photos of the team sleeping on benches went viral early Monday, prompting condemnation from Nigerian authorities.
However, the team has now landed in Kano after their flight was cleared to take off in Libya.
