Swift Diplomacy Saves The Day As Super Eagles Return Home For World Cup Qualifier
In a display of deft diplomacy and swift coordination, the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stepped in to ensure the timely return of Nigeria’s Super Eagles from Luanda, Angola, ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Benin Republic.
The team’s journey back to Uyo was temporarily halted when their aircraft developed a cracked windscreen during a refuelling stop in Luanda.
However, under the directive of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, the Nigerian Mission in Angola moved swiftly to resolve the crisis, activating diplomatic channels and securing vital overflight and landing permits across five countries, Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Angola.
Ambassador Tuggar was said to have personally supervised the coordination efforts alongside the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, Senator Abdul Ningi, and the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko.
Their joint efforts ensured the replacement aircraft’s prompt clearance, allowing the team to resume their journey without further delay.
The Ministry’s prompt response has been hailed as a prime example of diplomacy in action, safeguarding national interests beyond traditional borders.
Meanwhile, Benin Republic’s squad has already touched down in Uyo, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown on Tuesday, as the Super Eagles aim to strengthen their bid for the 2026 World Cup.
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