Super Eagles: NFF boss hails President Tinubu for support

…commends ValueJet crew for diligence, endurance

By Tosin Omojola

The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, on Tuesday expressed the appreciation of the NFF and Nigerian football community for the encouragement of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following the Super Eagles’ ordeal at the airport in Libya.

On Monday, President Tinubu issued a statement welcoming the team back home and calling for swift justice from the Confederation of African Football regarding the inhumane treatment of the Nigerian delegation.

The President also commended the proactive efforts of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Sports Development in addressing the unfortunate situation and ensuring the safe return of the players.

“We express our deep and sincere appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his kind words of encouragement. These words have greatly reassured the players of the Government and the people’s unwavering support for their efforts and sacrifices in representing this great country,” Gusau said.

“The Government’s commitment and love for the team were further demonstrated by the physical presence of the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, at the airport to welcome the team back to Nigeria.”

“Mr. President, as the father of the nation, has once again shown his concern and keen interest in football, the beautiful game that unites our people across all social, political, and economic divides, fostering national unity and friendship among nations.”

Gusau, who led the delegation to Libya, also praised the captain and crew of the ValueJet aircraft that transported the team, highlighting their patience, professionalism, and endurance, which made the trip more bearable for the delegation.

“The captain, Mr. Abdul-Latif, and the crew were outstanding. I especially commend the captain for his professionalism and excellence. At one point, he intervened with airport officials to allow the NFF leadership to leave the airport to arrange transportation for the team.

“As a fellow North African (Tunisian) who had worked in Libya previously, he was offered hotel accommodation, but he refused, choosing instead to stay with the crew in the aircraft, as no Nigerian was allowed into the hotels due to strict orders.”

“The captain and crew demonstrated remarkable maturity and kindness. We will never forget them.”

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