Nigeria’s national team have safely arrived in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, following a harrowing mid-air incident on their chartered flight.
The squad’s journey from South Africa, where they secured a 2-1 victory over Lesotho on Friday in their FIFA World Cup qualifiers
The situation turned tense when their aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing in Luanda, Angola, on Saturday night.
It was reported that a loud crack appeared on the plane’s windscreen, prompting the pilots to execute an emergency U-turn and return to the Angolan capital.
Super Eagles arrive safely
Team media officer Promise Efoghe confirmed the team’s safe arrival. “Finally, Super Eagles arrive in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.
Super Eagles players heading back to Nigeria || X
“The team touched down at 8:05 a.m. Sunday morning,” he stated, concluding a stressful 24-hour travel ordeal.
The NFF official X account also confirmed their arrival, “The @NGSuperEagles have finally arrived in Uyo after a delay in Luanda, Angola, due to issues with the aircraft conveying them back home after the win over Lesotho. Yes. We can.”
The flight carried a host of top European-based players, including Fulham’s Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi, Brentford’s Frank Onyeka, and Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman. Napoli striker Victor Osimhen was also among the passengers.
The team, including Napoli star Victor Osimhen and several Premier League players, is in Uyo for their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic.
Despite the unsettling experience, all players and officials are reported to be safe. The team are expected to begin training immediately as they prepare for the crucial World Cup qualifying match against Benin Republic on Tuesday.