Nigeria’s Super Eagles have arrived safely in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, after their flight from South Africa was delayed due to a mid-air technical issue.
The team, preparing for Tuesday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic, touched down at the Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo at exactly 8:05 a.m. on Sunday.
“Finally, Super Eagles arrive in Uyo, Akwa Ibom. The team touched down at 8:05 a.m. Sunday morning,” team media officer Promise Efoghe confirmed in a statement.
A video released by the team’s media department showed players and officials disembarking from the ValueJet aircraft, bringing relief after a tense and extended journey that began in Polokwane, South Africa.
The delegation had departed South Africa late on Saturday, but their trip was disrupted after the aircraft developed a fault shortly after a refuelling stop in Luanda, Angola. About 25 minutes after take-off, a loud crack appeared on the plane’s windscreen, forcing the pilot to make an emergency return to Luanda.
According to a statement by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the damaged windscreen made it unsafe to continue the journey, prompting an immediate turnaround. All players, officials, and government delegates onboard landed safely.
The NFF said ValueJet Airline worked closely with federal authorities, including the Ministers of Aviation and Foreign Affairs and the Chief of Staff to the President, to arrange a replacement aircraft.
“The ValueJet Airline and the relevant Federal Government authorities worked swiftly to obtain overflying and landing permits for another aircraft to fly from Lagos, pick up the delegation in Luanda, and convey them to Uyo,” the statement read.
After nearly 12 hours of delay, the replacement aircraft completed the journey, flying the team into Uyo on Sunday morning.
With their travel ordeal over, the Super Eagles will now shift focus to their vital World Cup qualifying clash against the Benin Republic on Tuesday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
The Super Eagles have touched down in Uyo ✈️🦅
Focus now shifts to the crucial World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic. 💪🇳🇬🎥 FB/FearGodSports pic.twitter.com/K8KESBHVkM
— Pulse Sports Nigeria (@PulseSportsNG) October 12, 2025
