President Bola Tinubu welcomes the Super Eagles of Nigeria after their safe return from the distressing ordeal in Libya.
The president expressed his concerns over the inhumane treatment the national football team received at the hands of their hosts and Libyan authorities, prompting the Nigerian Football Federation to withdraw the Super Eagles from their scheduled match on Tuesday.
The team had faced delays and hostile treatment during their transit, leading to widespread outrage among fans and sports officials alike.
In a statement released on Monday, by the Special Adviser to the President, Bayo Onanuga, it was disclosed that President Tinubu expects the Disciplinary Board of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to conduct a thorough investigation and recommend appropriate action against those who wilfully violated the organisation’s Statutes and Regulations.
“The President commends the proactive coordination between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Sports Development in addressing the unfortunate episode and ensuring the safe return of our players.
“President Tinubu applauds the players for keeping their spirit alive despite the excruciating ordeal in Libya.”
According to Onanuga, “The Nigerian leader recognises football’s unifying power in bringing nations and people together and views the treatment of our citizens as unsportsmanlike and inhumane, a stark contrast to the spirit of the game he deeply appreciates.”
He added that President Tinubu fervently called on all lovers of the round-leather game and administrators to unite and work collaboratively to prevent and overcome such incidents in the future.