PRES. TRUMP AWARDED INAUGURAL FIFA PEACE PRIZE AT WORLD CUP DRAW IN WASHINGTON . (PHOTOS).
Nigeria’s Super Eagles landed safely at Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo at 8:05 AM today, ending a dramatic 12-hour travel ordeal caused by a technical fault on their flight from South Africa. The team, preparing for a critical 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic on Tuesday, was delayed after a mid-air emergency forced their plane to return to Luanda, Angola.
Team media officer Promise Efoghe confirmed the arrival in a statement, saying, “Finally, Super Eagles arrive in Uyo, Akwa Ibom. The team touched down at 8:05 a.m. Sunday morning.” A video released by the team’s media department captured players and officials disembarking from the replacement ValueJet aircraft, marking the resolution of a journey that began late Saturday in Polokwane, South Africa.
The trouble started shortly after takeoff from Luanda, where the aircraft had stopped for refueling following the team’s preparations in South Africa. About 25 minutes into the flight, a loud crack appeared on the windscreen, prompting the pilot to make an emergency U-turn back to Luanda. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed that all players, officials, and government delegates disembarked safely, crediting the pilot for expertly managing the situation.
The NFF stated that ValueJet Airline collaborated with Nigerian authorities, including the Ministers of Aviation and Foreign Affairs, and the Chief of Staff to the President, to secure permits for a replacement aircraft from Lagos. The new plane successfully completed the trip, bringing the team to Uyo early Sunday.
Coach Eric Chelle’s squad now shifts focus to the upcoming match at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, a pivotal encounter as Nigeria seeks to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a challenging campaign. The safe arrival has eased concerns, allowing the team to prepare for Tuesday’s crucial showdown against Benin Republic.
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