Felicia Udeji Reporting
The Tunisian pilot who flew the Nigerian national team to Libya for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier has shed light on the controversial diversion of their flight to Al-Abraq airport, revealing that Libyan authorities ordered the sudden change in destination.
In an exclusive video interview, the pilot disclosed that he had received approval to land in Benghazi, the original destination, but was instructed to divert to Al-Abraq, a small airport 150 miles away, just as he began his descent.
“I questioned the directive multiple times, warning of potential fuel issues, but was told it was an order from the highest authority,” the pilot explained, refuting claims that he had made the decision unilaterally.
The diversion has sparked outrage, with the Nigerian team left stranded for over 16 hours. The Nigeria Football Federation has since announced that the Super Eagles will withdraw from the qualifier match against Libya.
The pilot’s account raises concerns about safety and security protocols in Libyan airspace. “Landing at Al-Abraq was a challenge due to its lack of facilities,” he noted. “We had to make a visual landing, which is particularly difficult by night with marginal weather.”
This shocking revelation adds fuel to the fire of controversy surrounding Libya’s hosting of international football matches. As investigations continue, one thing is clear: the safety and well-being of athletes must be paramount.