AFCONQ 2025: Sports Minister Condemns Libyan Authorities For Holding Super Eagles Hostage at Airport

 

The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh has reacted after Nigeria’s Super Eagles and their officials were held hostage at Al Abaq Airport.

 

The Minister condemned the action of the Libyan authorities.

 

The incident occurred after the Nigerian aircraft, originally en route to Benghazi, was diverted to another city over a two-hour drive from the intended destination, just an hour before landing.

 

This diversion caused significant distress to the Super Eagles team, officials, and support staff, who were left stranded and subjected to unnecessary delays.

 

Reacting to the development, Enoh in a statement released by his spokesperson, Diana-Mary Nsan, on Monday morning, expressed deep concern over the poor treatment of Austin Eguavoen’s men, particularly as they were in Libya for an international engagement.

 

“Such 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,” Enoh stated.

“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.