Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed frustration and concern after the Nigerian national team was left stranded at Al Abaq Airport in Libya for nearly 20 hours.
The team was en route to their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier match against Libya on Tuesday, October 15, when they were unexpectedly held at the airport.
Troost-Ekong revealed the players’ distressing situation through photos shared on his Twitter account, as they continue to seek help from authorities.
Moreover, Troost-Ekong disclosed that the team had agreed to boycott the upcoming AFCON qualifier match due to the ordeal they have faced.
The prolonged delay has raised questions about the treatment of the Super Eagles, not just by Libyan authorities but also by Nigerian officials who appear unresponsive to the players’ predicament.
“We feel abandoned and disrespected as representatives of Nigeria.
We have received no support,” the captain reportedly said.
Furthermore, the incident has fueled anger among fans and supporters, who believe the players deserve better treatment for their dedication to representing Nigeria on the international stage.
Critics have pointed out the disparity in priorities, with government officials engaging in costly travels while the nation’s athletes struggle with basic logistical support.
There are now calls for urgent intervention by Nigerian authorities to resolve the situation and ensure the safety and welfare of the stranded players.