A Tunisian pilot who flew the Super Eagles of Nigeria to Libya has shed light on the controversial flight diversion that led to the Nigerian team’s withdrawal from their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya.
In a widely shared video, the pilot revealed that the original flight plan was to land in Benina, a town in the Benghazi area of Libya, with prior approval from the Libyan Civil Aviation Authority.
However, upon beginning their descent, he was instructed to divert to Al-Abraq, an airport not listed as an alternate.
The pilot stated that this unexpected decision came from “Libya’s highest authorities,” despite his repeated protests and concerns about fuel limitations. He emphasized that the diversion compromised flight safety and that he had requested to land in Benghazi as per the original flight plan but was repeatedly denied.
“However, as we began our descent, we were instructed to divert to Al-Abraq, which wasn’t even listed as our alternate airport.
“This decision came from the highest authorities, not me. In aviation, we calculate fuel based on our destination. Diverting unexpectedly can compromise safety.
“Everything is documented. I asked to land in Benghazi as per my flight plan, but they denied it, instructing me to divert immediately.
“I repeatedly questioned the directive and warned them about fuel limitations, but they insisted that we land in Al-Abraq, citing orders from the highest authority.”
The Super Eagles’ flight eventually landed at Al Abaq airport, where the team was held for over 20 hours without food or drinks. This incident led to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announcing the team’s withdrawal from the match and their subsequent return to Nigeria.
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