By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.
In a swift display of diplomatic efficiency, the Nigerian Mission in Luanda, Angola—acting under the directive of the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar—has successfully coordinated the safe and timely return of Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, to Uyo ahead of their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic.
The team’s travel plans were disrupted when their aircraft was grounded in Luanda due to a cracked windscreen discovered during a refueling stop. Responding promptly, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) activated diplomatic channels to facilitate the release and flight of a replacement aircraft.
Through sustained diplomatic engagement, the Nigerian Mission secured essential overflight and landing permits from five countries—Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Angola—enabling the replacement aircraft to operate without delay.
Ministry officials disclosed that Ambassador Tuggar personally oversaw the coordination, directing the mission to work closely with key stakeholders, including Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, Senator Abdul Ningi; Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko; and relevant aviation and diplomatic authorities across the region.
“Our priority was clear—to ensure that our national team returned home safely and in time to prepare for their World Cup qualifier,” a senior ministry source said.
The Ministry’s swift intervention has been widely commended as a demonstration of proactive diplomacy in service of national interest.
Meanwhile, the Benin national team has already arrived in Uyo, setting the stage for Tuesday’s crucial encounter. With the Super Eagles’ safe arrival now assured, attention turns back to the pitch, where Nigeria will seek to strengthen its campaign for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
