Libyan Football Federation President Resigns Over Nigeria Row

Libya Football Chief Quits

“I do not want to be part of the failure in Libyan sports...”

Libyan Football Federation President Abdelhakim Al-Shalmani resigns amid Super Eagles controversy.

Abdelhakim Al-Shalmani, the President of the Libyan Football Federation, has stepped down from his position following controversy surrounding the treatment of Nigeria's national team, the Super Eagles. His resignation was announced during a routine meeting of the Federation's General Assembly in Libya on Sunday, October 13.

Al-Shalmani cited his desire to distance himself from the failures in Libyan sports as the reason for his resignation. He reflected on the challenges faced during his tenure and expressed gratitude to his colleagues. The resignation comes amid growing tensions surrounding the treatment of the Nigerian national team ahead of a crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. The Super Eagles were held at an abandoned airport for over 15 hours, leading to concerns about safety and a potential boycott of the match.

Developments:

• Resignation: Abdelhakim Al-Shalmani steps down as Libyan Football Federation President
• Controversy: Surrounds treatment of Nigeria's Super Eagles national team
• Reason for Resignation: Al-Shalmani distances himself from Libyan sports failures
• Upcoming Match: Africa Cup of Nations qualifier between Libya and Nigeria

The Libyan Football Federation clarified that the delay was due to routine air traffic and logistical challenges, not deliberate foul play. However, the incident has sparked an investigation by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

“I do not want to be part of the failure in Libyan sports,” Al-Shalmani stated.

Abdelhakim Al-Shalmani, the outgoing President of the Libyan Football Federation, expressed his appreciation to colleagues while also offering forgiveness to those in the sports sector with whom he may have had differences. In essence, he's closing his tenure on a note of gratitude and reconciliation, acknowledging the complexities of the sports industry.

This gesture comes amidst his resignation following controversy surrounding the treatment of Nigeria's Super Eagles during their recent visit to Libya for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. Al-Shalmani's resignation and heartfelt statement aim to diffuse tensions and promote unity within the sports community.

“I thank all members of the General Assembly and I forgive everyone fromell segments of the sports sector,” he added.

The Libyan Football Federation President, Abdelhakim Al-Shalmani, resigned on Sunday, October 13, amidst controversy surrounding Nigeria's Super Eagles' recent visit to Libya. The team reported facing “inhumane treatment” upon arrival for the second leg of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

During their layover at Al Abraq International Airport, the Super Eagles were allegedly stranded for over 16 hours without assistance from the Libyan Football Federation. This incident prompted an investigation by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), which has vowed to take necessary measures.

In a statement, it said, “CAF has been in contact with the Libyan and Nigerian authorities after it had been informed that the Nigerian National Football Team (Super Eagles) and their technical team were stranded in disturbing conditions for several hours at an airport that they were allegedly instructed to land by the Libyan authorities.

“The matter has been referred to the CAF Disciplinary Board for investigation and appropriate action will be taken against those who violated the CAF Statutes and Regulations.”