Super Eagles star Simon Moses has recounted the harrowing experience endured by the Nigerian national team during a prolonged 17-hour ordeal at Libya’s Al Abraq airport, where fears about health hazards posed by mosquitoes compounded their distress.
Initially set to land in Benghazi, the team was unexpectedly diverted to Al Abraq, located over 200 miles from their intended destination. Upon arrival, the players found themselves locked inside the airport with no food or water, forced to spend the night on the floor of the departure lounge.
In an interview with L’Équipe, the 29-year-old forward from FC Nantes described the experience as akin to a hostage situation. “We felt as though we were taken hostage. When we arrived, there was no one to assist us. We ended up saying that we would have to sleep there,” Simon explained. Despite efforts from the Nigeria Football Federation to secure accommodations, access to the nearby hotel was restricted for the team.
The absence of basic necessities heightened their discomfort as they struggled against swarms of mosquitoes throughout the night. “We stayed there, without a bed, without food or water, in the middle of the mosquitoes,” he added, expressing concern for the team’s health.
Simon noted the palpable fear among the players during this ordeal. “When you see that they’re blocking the road and locking the doors in the airport, naturally you worry that something is going to happen to you,” he said, reflecting on the anxiety that permeated their situation.
Fortunately, the team safely returned home on Monday evening. Expressing relief, Simon confirmed his readiness to participate in the upcoming match against OGC Nice on Sunday, stating that there is no question of him being unavailable.
