William Troost-Ekong, captain of the Nigerian national team has revealed that the squad may have been cleared to return to Nigeria after being held up for nearly 24 hours at the Al Abraq airport.

Ekong wrote: “Power of social media. Our plane is being fuelled as we speak and we should be leaving to Nigeria shortly. Thanks for everyone’s support!”

Earlier, the captain wrote that they were unable to leave the airport for Nigeria as the Libyan authorities refused to allow the fuelling of the aircraft.

“Can I shock you?! The pilot has just told us there had been fuel at this airport for the plane all this time. They could have released it but haven’t permitted us since. Can you imagine?! So how long are they planning to hold us hostage here!!! Still just waiting”

Following the outrage that followed Libya’s inhumane treatment to the Super Eagles delegation who had arrived for a scheduled Match Day 4 of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, the Libyan FA has denied complicity in the plot.

In a statement issued via a reel in the official X handle of the Libyan Football Federation, the body confirmed the inhumane treatment and explained as follows:

“We are deeply concerned about the recent reports surrounding the diversion of the Nigerian national team’s flight ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Libya

“While we regret any inconvenience caused, it is essential to note that such incidents can occur due to routine air traffic control protocols, security checks, or logistical challenges that affect international air travel.

“These are standard procedures at airports worldwide, and delays or rerouting, though unfortunate, are not uncommon. We have the utmost respect for our Nigerian counterparts and want to reassure them that the diversion of their flight was not intentional.

“There are no grounds to accuse the Libyan security teams or the Libyan Football Federation of deliberately orchestrating this incident. Such actions are inconsistent with our values and principles.

“We firmly reject any claims that suggest foul play or sabotage in this situation. It is important to highlight that just last week, our own national team faced significant challenges upon our arrival in Nigeria for the third match of the Africa Cup of Nations qualification.

“Despite the difficulties we encountered, we did not make public accusations nor question the integrity of the Nigerian authorities. Football, in its essence, unites nations, and we are committed to upholding the spirit of fairness and mutual respect both on and off the field.

“In Libya, we pride ourselves on our hospitality and our welcoming nature. We have always prioritized treating all visiting teams, includingour African brothers and other international delegations, with the respect and dignity they deserve

“Hosting these events is a great honor for us, and we strive to ensure that all teams feel safe and respected as our guests. This commitment to equality and hospitality is a core aspect of our culture and tradition.

“We hope that this misunderstanding can be resolved with understanding and goodwill. Our doors are open to our Nigerian brothers and all African teams, and we continue to promote the spirit of unity, sportsmanship, and friendship in the world of football.”

Burkina Faso became the first team to qualify for the 2025 African Cup of Nations finals, joining hosts Morocco in the 24-team tournament following a 2-0 win in Burundi on Sunday.

A goal from Mohamed Konate and Bertrand Traore’s penalty, took the Burkinabe to 10 points from four games in Group L and ensured they will not finish outside the top two.

Senegal are in second place with seven points from three matches and will also qualify if they win away to Malawi on Tuesday. Burundi have three points from four games and Malawi none from three.

The top two in the 12 qualification pools advance to the finals that will be played from Dec. 21 next year to Jan. 18, 2026, bar Morocco’s Group B where one other team will qualify.

Gabon, Central African Republic and Lesotho are the other teams in that section