Sports minister John Enoh has condemned the recent actions of the Libyan authorities against the Nigerian Super Eagles and their officials at the Al Abaq Airport.

This is contained in a statement on Monday. The minister expressed deep concern over the poor treatment of the team, particularly as they were in Libya for an international engagement.

”The actions by the Libyan authorities are deeply disturbing and completely unacceptable. 

“Holding our national team and officials’ hostage under any circumstances violates not only international sporting protocols but also the principles of respect and hospitality that should be extended to all visiting teams.

“The Nigerian government will not tolerate any form of disrespect or mistreatment toward our players and officials,” he said.

Mr Enoh emphasised that the safety and welfare of the Super Eagles and their officials remained the Nigeria government’s top priority.

He assured Nigerians that the ministry was working closely with the foreign affairs ministry, relevant diplomatic channels, and other stakeholders to resolve the situation.

“They are working round the clock to ensure the immediate and safe release of the team and their safe passage to their destination.

”We are in close contact with the appropriate authorities, and we are sparing no effort in ensuring that this situation is resolved swiftly.

“I urge everyone to remain calm while we engage diplomatically to address this matter,” he added.

The minister further called on the Libyan authorities to respect international sporting relations and the fundamental rights of athletes and officials travelling for official purposes.

He stressed that sports diplomacy was vital for fostering global unity, adding that Nigeria remains committed to strengthening international relations through sports.

”But we will not shy away from defending the rights and dignity of our athletes and officials when they are unfairly treated,” stated the minister.

He expressed his gratitude to the Nigerian public for their patience and support, reassuring them that every necessary measure was taken to bring the Super Eagles safely to their destination.

The Super Eagles were billed to play hosts Libya on Tuesday in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) return leg.

Nigeria beat Libya 1-0 in the first leg in Uyo on Friday to maintain leadership of Group D after Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s 86th-minute strike off a cross from Moses Simon.

According to earlier reports by the Super Eagles spokesman, Promise Efoghe, the team left on a chartered flight from Uyo to Benghazi on Sunday morning ahead of the return leg match.

But were held hostage by Libyan authorities at the Al-Abaq Airport on Sunday night for over 12 hours.

Mr Efoghe explained that the team’s chartered aircraft, approaching its destination in Benghazi, had been diverted to another city, more than a two-hour drive from the original base.

“Libyan authorities held Super Eagles officials hostage at the Al Abaq airport in Al Abaq. About an hour to landing, the Nigerian aircraft approaching its destination, Benghazi, was diverted to another city more than two-hour drive from the original destination,” he said.

The NFF said the logistical confusion surrounding the Mediterranean Knights’ arrival in Nigeria was caused by the Libyan Football Federation.

The Eagles top the group, one point ahead of Benin Republic’s Cheetahs, who routed Rwanda’s Amavubi 3-0 in another Matchday 3 encounter.

Victory for the Eagles against the Mediterranean Knights on Tuesday night would have virtually sealed a ticket to the 35th AFCON finals in Morocco.

(NAN)