By Milcah Tanimu
Nigerian football stars Victor Osimhen and Stanley Nwabali expressed deep disappointment over the treatment of the Super Eagles at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya.
Osimhen criticized the unprofessional handling of the national team and labeled the situation “inhumane” in a post on Monday. He stated, “I am disappointed by the unfair treatment my brothers and coaches faced at the Libyan airport last night. Actions like this go against the spirit of sportsmanship. My support is with my team, and I know they’ll stay strong despite these obstacles.”
He urged the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to intervene quickly. “I call on CAF and other football bodies to intervene, as my teammates and officials are still stranded at the airport in Libya. This is uncalled for and inhumane. We stand together, stronger than ever,” he added.
Nwabali echoed Osimhen’s concerns, expressing outrage over the conditions the team endured. He posted on X (formerly Twitter) about their experience, stating they had spent over 14 hours at an abandoned airport without access to food, water, or internet. He described the ordeal as “absolutely crazy” and called for immediate CAF intervention. “Over 14 hours spent at an abandoned Libyan airport. No food, no water, no internet access — this is absolutely crazy! #CAF_Online, please do the needful,” Nwabali tweeted.
Victor Boniface also voiced his frustration, sharing, “Been at the airport for almost 13 hours, no food, no Wi-Fi, nowhere to sleep. Africa, we can do better.”
According to The PUNCH, the Nigerian delegation was traveling to Benghazi for a crucial qualifier when their chartered flight dangerously diverted to Al Abraq, a small airport typically used for Hajj operations. The team waited for 12 hours without assistance from the Libyan Football Federation, which failed to provide transportation.
Despite the ongoing situation, CAF has yet to address the issue.
