The Libyan Football Federal has responded to the widespread concerns following the diversion of the flight conveying Nigerian Contingent to Benghazi for Tuesday’s match-day four of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier between the Super Eagles and the Mediterranean Knights of Libya.
Recall that the delegation of Nigeria to the qualifier temained at the Al Abraq Airport 12 hours after landing in Libya.
The chartered ValueJet aircraft was strangely diverted to the small airport away from Benghazi just as the pilot was completing his approach to the Benghazi Airport. Al Abraq International Airport is only used for hajj operations.
Fatigued players and officials from Nigeria had remained nonplussed as the host Libyan Football Federation failed to send any reception team or even vehicles to take the delegation members from the airport to their hotel, said to be 3 hours away in Benghazi.
However, the Libyan Football Federation has issued a statement aimed at addressing concerns regarding the diversion of the flight.
The Federation expressed its regret for any inconvenience caused but emphasized that such incidents are part of the standard challenges encountered in international air travel.
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It said in a statement; “Whether due to air traffic control protocols, security checks, or logistical hurdles, these are routine procedures that can affect any nation.
Importantly, the Federation categorically denied any intentional wrongdoing, rejecting claims that the Libyan authorities or football representatives were involved in any form of foul play.”
The statement highlighted that the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect is central to their values.
Furthermore, it recalled how Libya faced significant travel challenges just a week earlier upon arrival in Nigeria but refrained from making public accusations.
Libya underscored its tradition of hospitality, welcoming all teams with dignity and respect, and expressed its commitment to fairness on and off the field.
The Federation encouraged understanding and dialogue, hoping the situation could be resolved with goodwill.
In the end, their message was clear: football is a sport that unites nations, and Libyans remain dedicated to fostering unity, sportsmanship, and friendship throughout the continent.
