The Minister for Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, has applauded the Nigerian Super Eagles for their professionalism and composure during a challenging ordeal in Libya. Despite facing significant provocations, the team maintained their calm and dignity, a testament to their maturity and the “Nigerian spirit.”
Senator Enoh made these remarks on Monday evening at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, where he received the players after their return from Libya. The Super Eagles had been held for over 16 hours at an abandoned airport in Al Abraq after their flight, originally scheduled to land in Benghazi for the second leg of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match, was diverted.
Following this ordeal, the team eventually departed Libya and arrived at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano State before proceeding to Abuja.
Speaking to the Super Eagles, Senator Enoh emphasized the relief felt across Nigeria upon their safe return, stating:
“The entire country is aware of all you’ve gone through. The entire country has been awake since last night praying that you come back safely. What was important to us was your safe return to the country; nothing else mattered. Let me thank all of you for the great show of maturity despite what took place — despite the provocations.”
The Minister also acknowledged the poor treatment the team received in Libya, noting how the players had been forced to endure uncomfortable conditions at the airport, yet remained calm and composed throughout. He continued:
“We’ve seen all the pictures — how you were treated and how you tried to see whether you could even find some rest in the airport. How you were stopped from even leaving the airport. Despite all of that, you remained calm and mature. That is the spirit that is typically Nigerian.”
Senator Enoh further assured the players that the Ministry of Sports was in communication with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) regarding the situation, stating:
“We’ve had discussions with the various levels and leaders of CAF in terms of what has happened and what took place.”
CAF has since launched an investigation into the “disturbing” incident that took place in Libya, as confirmed on Monday.
The Super Eagles’ resilience and ability to remain focused in the face of adversity continues to earn them admiration from fans and officials alike, reinforcing their status as a source of national pride
