CAF launches investigation after stranding Super Eagles experience in Libya

By Samuel Ahmadu

The Confederation Africaine de Football (CAF) has initiated an investigation into an incident involving the Nigerian men’s national football team, who were reportedly stranded for several hours at a Libyan airport under concerning conditions.

The Super Eagles, initially en route to Benghazi, was unexpectedly diverted to Al Abaq Airport, hours away from their intended destination, with scant attention to their safety.

Since their arrival, the team has been subjected to severe hardships, including being left unattended for over 15 hours, without access to food or accommodation, while being cordoned off by Libyan security in a mosquito-infested environment.

And CAF has now admitted knowledge that the team and its technical staff were instructed by Libyan authorities to land at the airport, where they experienced significant delays and discomfort.

The situation, which caused considerable distress, has raised serious concerns regarding the conditions in which the team was held during this time.

Upon learning of the incident, CAF immediately engaged with both the Libyan and Nigerian authorities to understand the full circumstances, and the African governing body has since referred the matter to its Disciplinary Board for a thorough review.

CAF has made it clear that any individuals or parties found in violation of CAF’s statutes and regulations will face appropriate sanctions.

The African organization remains fully committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety, respect, and professionalism for all national teams competing under its purview.