The Super Eagles have safely arrived in Uyo after a mid-air emergency forced their aircraft to make an unscheduled return to Angola on Saturday during their journey from South Africa.
The team’s ValueJet flight, which was carrying players, coaches, and officials from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), was en route from Polokwane to Uyo when a loud crack was heard in the cockpit windshield shortly after refuelling in Luanda.
The pilot immediately executed a precautionary turnaround, landing safely back in Angola where all passengers disembarked while safety checks were conducted.
NFF sources told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that emergency procedures were properly observed, and a replacement aircraft was later deployed to complete the trip. The team eventually landed at Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo at 8:05 a.m. on Sunday.
The incident caused a short delay in the team’s arrival schedule, but no injuries were reported.
The Super Eagles — currently second in their qualifying group — will take on Benin Republic in a decisive match that could secure their ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Officials confirmed that a light training session would be held later today at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, as the players recover from the unexpected disruption.
The emergency has drawn attention to the challenges of team logistics in African football, though the NFF expressed satisfaction with the crew’s professionalism and swift response.
“All safety protocols were followed, and the team arrived safely. That is what matters most,” an NFF official said.
