Nigeria withdrew from their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya and returned home on Monday, according to captain William Troost-Ekong.
The decision was made in protest after the team was diverted to an airport far from the match venue and left stranded for hours.
The Super Eagles were set to face Libya in Benghazi, aiming to secure qualification for the 2025 finals in Morocco.
However, after being stranded for over 16 hours at an airport 250 kilometers away, the Nigerian players announced they would not proceed with the match.
The Nigeria Football Federation explained that their charter flight, which was scheduled to land in Benghazi, was unexpectedly diverted to Al Abraq International Airport, with no alternative transport provided.
Reuters reportedly sought comment from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), while the Libyan Football Federation clarified that the diversion was unintentional.
They urged Nigeria to understand, stating that such issues can arise due to air traffic protocols, security checks, or logistical problems.
Nigeria striker Victor Boniface expressed frustration, noting that they had been at the airport for almost 13 hours without food, Wi-Fi, or proper accommodations.
The fate of the match remains uncertain, with the case likely to be handled by CAF’s disciplinary board.
Nigeria had previously defeated Libya 1-0 in the reverse fixture in Uyo, with a late goal by Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
This victory brought Nigeria to seven points from three games in their group, followed by Benin with six points, Rwanda with two, and Libya with one.
The top two teams from each group advance to the 24-team finals.
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