AFCONQ 2025: No Food for 13 Hours – Boniface z Outrage as Libyan Authorities Hold Super Eagles Hostage

The Super Eagles of Nigeria found themselves in a distressing situation at Al Abraq Airport in Libya in a dramatic turn of events during the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.

The team, en route to Benghazi for their match, was unexpectedly redirected mid-air to this remote airport, which is approximately a three-hour drive from their intended destination. Upon landing, they were held at the airport for over 13 hours without access to food, water, or Wi-Fi, leaving them stranded and frustrated.

Victor Boniface, a striker for Bayer Leverkusen and a key player for the Super Eagles, took to social media to express his discontent with the situation. He tweeted, "Been at the airport for almost 13 hours no food no wifi no where to sleep African we can do better @caf." His message highlighted the dire conditions faced by the team and called for intervention from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

The Nigerian Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, also condemned the actions of the Libyan authorities. In a statement, he described the treatment of the Super Eagles as "deeply disturbing and completely unacceptable," emphasizing that such actions violate international sporting protocols and the principles of respect and hospitality expected for visiting teams. Enoh assured that the Nigerian government was actively working to resolve the situation diplomatically.

The ordeal led to massive distress among the players and officials, prompting the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to consider pulling the team out of the qualifier against Libya.

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong confirmed the decision, stating that the team would not play under such circumstances. This incident has sparked widespread criticism and calls for CAF to take action to prevent similar occurrences in the future.