A Tunisian pilot reveals how Libyan authorities forced the Super Eagles’ flight diversion during the AFCON qualifier, adding to the travel chaos.
In an unexpected twist, the Tunisian pilot who transported Nigeria’s national football team to Libya has revealed details about the unforeseen diversion of their flight. This incident left the Super Eagles stranded at a remote airport for more than 16 hours.
The Nigerian delegation was on their way to Benghazi for an important 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya when their flight was unexpectedly rerouted to Al-Abraq, an airport almost 300 kilometers away from where they intended to land.
This diversion caused substantial delays, leaving the team without access to basic amenities during their extended wait.
In a video interview posted by Pooja Media on X (formerly known as Twitter), the pilot explained that Libyan authorities, not he himself, made the decision to divert the plane to Al-Abraq.
The airport, mainly utilized for hajj operations, is located far from major cities like Benghazi, where the Super Eagles were set to play.
The detour resulted in significant disruptions for the Nigerian team, intensifying the challenges of their already crucial qualifier.
“The pilot explained, ‘Our original flight plan included landing at Benghazi, Benina with permission from the Libyan Civil Aviation Authority. Yet, during our descent, we were directed to reroute to Al-Abraq—an airport that wasn’t even designated as an alternate option. This order was issued by top Libyan officials and not decided by me.'”
He voiced his worries about the safety risks resulting from the abrupt change, noting that the fuel on board was accounted for based on the original destination.
“In aviation, fuel calculations are typically based on the intended destination. An unexpected diversion can pose safety risks. I continuously questioned this directive and warned them about our fuel limitations; however, they insisted that we land at Al-Abraq, citing orders from the highest authority,” he stated.
The pilot denied media assertions that the decision to divert was his own, emphasizing that all aviation communications are documented and could serve as evidence. “Everything is recorded. I requested to land in Benghazi in accordance with my flight plan, but they refused and instructed me to divert immediately,” he stated.
The situation at Al-Abraq presented additional obstacles. The pilot noted that the small airport was inadequately equipped, missing crucial navigation systems such as an Instrument Landing System (ILS) and VHF Omnidirectional Range (VOR). This made a night landing amidst marginal weather conditions especially challenging.
“I had to perform a visual landing, which is particularly risky in those conditions. It wasn’t easy, but thankfully we landed safely,” he said, crediting his previous experience and familiarity with the region for helping him manage the situation effectively.
In response to the situation, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has chosen to withdraw the Super Eagles from their qualifier match against Libya.
“The statement indicated that the players have decided not to participate in the match, and NFF officials are currently organizing travel plans to bring the team back home.”
This news pertains to the challenges faced by the Nigerian national football team during their journey to Libya for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya. On Sunday, instead of landing as planned in Benghazi, their flight was unexpectedly rerouted to Al-Abraq, a remote airport located in eastern Libya.
This diversion caused the Nigerian delegation to be stranded for more than 16 hours, prompting questions and concerns from both the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and the public.
The diversion of the flight sparked controversy, with differing reports indicating that it could have been a decision made by the pilot. However, during a subsequent interview, the Tunisian pilot clarified that Libyan authorities were responsible for ordering the change in course. He emphasized that their original flight plan had received approval to land in Benghazi; however, being redirected at the last minute to Al-Abraq raised safety and logistical issues related especially to fuel management and landing conditions.
Al-Abraq Airport is a small, under-equipped facility typically used for hajj operations. This makes it a challenging location for an unexpected landing, particularly at night and in poor weather conditions. As a result, the Nigerian delegation was left stranded, raising security and safety concerns that further complicated their preparations for the crucial qualifier.
The Nigeria Football Federation eventually opted to pull the Super Eagles from the match, citing the players’ decision not to continue given the circumstances.
This development highlights the persistent tensions and challenges that visiting teams encounter when traveling to unstable regions such as Libya, which continues to grapple with political and security issues in the post-Gaddafi era.
Peoplesmind
