BREAKING: President Tinubu welcomes Super Eagles’ safe return after Libya ordeal
By Kunle Sanni
President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the safe return of the Super Eagles after their harrowing experience at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya, where the team was stranded for over 18 hours without access to basic necessities.
In a statement issued on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu expressed his deep concern over the “inhumane treatment” endured by the Nigerian national team during the incident.
The president conveyed his relief at their safe return and praised the resilience of the players in the face of adversity.
The statement read: “President Bola Tinubu, deeply moved by the inhumane treatment endured by the Super Eagles of Nigeria at a Libyan airport, warmly welcomes their safe return to Nigeria.
“The distressing experience of the national football team at the hands of their hosts and the Libyan authorities led to the Nigerian Football Federation’s decision to withdraw the Super Eagles from the scheduled match on Tuesday.”
President Tinubu further urged the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Disciplinary Board to conduct a thorough investigation and recommend appropriate action against those who violated the organisation’s statutes and regulations.
He also commended the proactive efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Sports Development in addressing the situation and ensuring the team’s safe return.
“President Tinubu applauds the players for maintaining their spirit despite the excruciating ordeal in Libya.
“The Nigerian leader recognises football’s unifying power in bringing nations and people together, and he views the treatment of our citizens as unsportsmanlike and inhumane—a stark contrast to the spirit of the game he deeply appreciates.”
The president called on football lovers and administrators to work collaboratively to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
