By By Micheal Chukwuebuka
THE Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed that a cracked windscreen on the chartered ValueJet aircraft conveying the Super Eagles from Polokwane, South Africa, to Uyo has caused a delay in the team’s arrival ahead of Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash against Benin Republic.
According to a statement released by the NFF Communications Department, the incident occurred after a routine refuelling stop in Luanda, Angola. The aircraft, which had successfully transported part of the Nigerian delegation to Polokwane last Thursday, reportedly suffered a cracked windscreen shortly after take-off from Luanda.
“The pilot did well to guide the airplane safely back to the airport in Luanda,” the NFF said, noting that the safety of all players and officials on board was ensured.
Efforts are currently underway to resolve the situation. The football body stated that ValueJet Airline, in collaboration with relevant Federal Government authorities, including the Minister of Aviation, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Chief of Staff to the President, are working to secure overflying and landing permits for another aircraft to be dispatched from Lagos to pick up the stranded delegation in Luanda and fly them to Uyo.
The same aircraft had previously stopped in Luanda for refuelling en route to and from South Africa for the Super Eagles’ last World Cup qualifying fixture against Bafana Bafana in June.
NFF
Despite the delay, the NFF assured fans that all necessary arrangements are being made to ensure the team’s timely arrival in Uyo and readiness for the crucial encounter against Benin Republic.
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