2025 AFCONQ: Boniface Slams Libya for Stranding Super Eagles Without Food or Shelter
By Okafor Joseph Afam
October 14, 2024
Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface has condemned the poor treatment of the Nigerian national team by Libyan authorities since their arrival at Al Abaq Airport on Sunday, ahead of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya.
The players and officials, who landed in Libya with hopes of a smooth preparation for Tuesday’s crucial match, were left stranded at the airport for hours without assistance from Libyan officials. The three-time African champions had expected to travel to the 10,000-capacity Martyrs of Benina Stadium in Benina, a city just 10 kilometres from Benghazi, where the match was scheduled to be played. However, reports suggest that the team was diverted to a different city, leaving them in limbo.
Reacting to the chaotic situation, Bayer Leverkusen star Boniface took to his official X (formerly Twitter) handle to express his frustration over the ill-treatment. He described the conditions the team had endured during the long wait at the airport, emphasizing the lack of basic provisions such as food, internet access, and proper accommodation.
“Been at the airport for almost 13 hours, no food, no Wi-Fi, nowhere to sleep. Africa, we can do better,” Boniface lamented in his post.
The striker’s comments have sparked outrage among fans and football enthusiasts, with many condemning the unprofessional treatment of the Nigerian team. The incident has reignited discussions about the level of organization and hospitality expected in African football, particularly during international tournaments like AFCON qualifiers.
The Super Eagles, despite the setback, remain focused on securing a win against Libya, but the disruption has raised concerns about their physical and mental readiness for the important fixture.
As of the time of reporting, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has yet to release an official statement addressing the situation, but sources suggest they are working closely with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to resolve the issue and ensure the team is properly accommodated before the match.
