SPORTS MINISTER CONDEMNS ACTIONS OF LIBYAN AUTHORITIES FOR HOLDING SUPER EAGLES HOSTAGE AT AIRPORT
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The recent actions of Libyan authorities, who held the Nigerian Super Eagles and their officials captive at Al Abaq Airport, have been sharply denounced by Senator John Owan Enoh, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development.
This incident happened an hour before the Nigerian plane was scheduled to land in Benghazi after being diverted to a different city more than two hours away.
The Super Eagles players, officials, and support personnel were severely distressed by this diversion, being left stranded and having to endure needless delays. Given that the crew was in Libya for an international engagement, the Honourable Minister voiced grave concerns over their mistreatment.
“Such actions by the Libyan authorities are deeply disturbing and completely unacceptable. Holding our national team and officials hostage under any circumstances violates not only international sporting protocols but also the principles of respect and hospitality that should be extended to all visiting teams. The Nigerian government will not tolerate any form of disrespect or mistreatment toward our players and officials,” Senator Enoh stated.
The government’s top priority continues to be the safety and well-being of the Super Eagles and their staff, the Honourable Minister underlined. In order to guarantee the team’s prompt and secure release as well as their safe journey to their destination, he gave Nigerians the assurance that the Ministry of Sports Development is collaborating closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, pertinent diplomatic channels, and other stakeholders.
“We are in close contact with the appropriate authorities, and we are sparing no effort in ensuring that this situation is resolved swiftly. I urge everyone to remain calm while we engage diplomatically to address this matter,” Senator Enoh added.
The Honourable Minister further urged Libyan authorities to uphold the fundamental rights of athletes and officials travelling for official business as well as international sporting relations. He emphasised that such incidents should not be permitted to happen again and that sports diplomacy is an essential weapon for promoting world harmony.
Nigeria is still dedicated to using sports to improve relations with other countries, but it will not back down from standing up for the rights and honour of its athletes and officials when they are mistreated.
The Minister informed everyone that every effort is being made to ensure the Super Eagles reach their destination safely and thanked the Nigerian people for their patience and support during this trying period.
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