Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to launch a thorough investigation after the Super Eagles endured a distressing experience during their time in Libya. The national football team faced what has been described as inhumane treatment at a Libyan airport, a situation that prompted the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to withdraw the team from their scheduled match.
In a statement delivered by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Tinubu expressed his dismay at the ordeal and commended the Super Eagles for maintaining their morale despite the circumstances. The president welcomed the team’s safe return to Nigeria and praised the swift action taken by Nigerian authorities to secure their arrival home.
“The harrowing experience of the national football team at the hands of their hosts and the Libyan authorities prompted the Nigerian Football Federation to withdraw the Super Eagles from the scheduled match on Tuesday,” the statement read. Tinubu has urged CAF’s Disciplinary Board to investigate the incident thoroughly and ensure that appropriate action is taken against those who violated the organization’s rules and regulations.
In addition to calling for an investigation, President Tinubu applauded the coordination between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, which worked together to bring the players home safely. He also praised the players themselves for showing resilience in the face of adversity.
Recognizing the unifying power of football, the president condemned the unsportsmanlike and inhumane treatment of the Nigerian team. He emphasized the importance of football in fostering unity between nations and called for concerted efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future. Tinubu urged all stakeholders in the world of football to collaborate and ensure that the spirit of the game is upheld and respected on all levels.
In his closing remarks, the president expressed his hope that this episode serves as a reminder of the need for fairness and sportsmanship, and reiterated his commitment to protecting the dignity of Nigerian athletes both at home and abroad.
