2025 AFCONQ: NFF applauds ValueJet crew for professionalism amidst Libya hostage

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has extended heartfelt appreciation to the captain and crew of ValueJet, the airline responsible for transporting Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team to and from Libya for the intended 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifier.

Gusau praised the crew for their exceptional professionalism, patience, and warmth throughout the difficult journey, which was marked by extended delays and challenging circumstances in Libya. He specifically commended the captain, Mr. Abdul-Latif, for his remarkable leadership and dedication to ensuring the safety and comfort of the delegation.

“The ValueJet crew were outstanding,” said Gusau. “Their patience, diligence, good manners, and warmth made what could have been an arduous trip much more manageable for the team. I must particularly commend Captain Abdul-Latif, who performed his duties with excellence and professionalism.

“At one point, he intervened with airport officials to allow the NFF leadership to negotiate for vehicles to transport the team, demonstrating not only his professionalism but his concern for the welfare of the delegation. Despite being offered hotel accommodation in Libya, which was unavailable to any other member of the crew or Nigerian nationals, the captain chose to remain in the aircraft with his team, refusing any comfort for himself.”

Gusau went on to highlight the crew’s maturity and kindness, expressing that their actions would not be forgotten.

In the meantime, after several hours of being held at Al-Abraq Airport due to fuel delays and logistical challenges, it was agreed by all parties that the Super Eagles would return to Nigeria. The decision followed a comprehensive briefing of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on the situation, which rendered the originally scheduled match unplayable.

After spending additional hours waiting for fuel to be supplied to the chartered ValueJet aircraft—amidst technical difficulties at an airport that fell short of international standards—the Nigerian delegation departed Al-Abraq Airport at 15:05 hours, bound for Kano and eventually Abuja.

Upon arrival in Kano on Monday, the team and officials finally breathed a sigh of relief, marking the end of a challenging ordeal. The NFF President expressed relief at their safe return and reiterated the importance of continued collaboration with CAF to resolve the situation in the coming days.