AFCON 2025Q: Super Eagles stars shut down Abuja nightclub hours after being held hostage in Libya

Following a harrowing ordeal in Libya, several Super Eagles stars made a triumphant return to Nigeria and wasted no time in celebrating their freedom. 

The national team, led by captain William Troost-Ekong, was spotted at a popular nightclub in Abuja, marking their return with a much-needed night of relaxation, Pulse Sports reports.

 In a viral video, the team’s key players, including Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Semi Ajayi, and Calvin Bassey, were seen mingling with famous Nigerian Disc Jockey DJ Neptune, enjoying the moment.

After enduring a troubling experience in Libya, the players chose to unwind in style, sharing their joy and relief with fans. 

According to reports, the return journey to Nigeria took just over three hours, but the mental and physical toll of their Libyan ordeal weighed heavily on the players. 

Their decision to skip the scheduled return leg of the AFCON Group D qualifier against Libya has made headlines around the world, drawing attention to the poor treatment they received during their time in the North African country.

"Proud of this team, NAIJA SPIRIT can’t be broken," Troost-Ekong proudly shared on social media upon his return.

Pulse Sports earlier reported that the Super Eagles' troubles began unexpectedly when their chartered plane, initially scheduled to land in Benghazi, was diverted to Al Abraq, an airport far from the city. 

Stranded for over 12 hours with no food, rest, or support from the Libyan Football Federation, the Nigerian team faced nightmarish conditions.

 The lack of transportation and basic facilities exacerbated the situation, prompting outrage from the players and Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) officials alike.

Troost-Ekong, alongside other team members such as Victor Boniface, Bright-Osayi Samuel, and Stanley Nwabali, voiced their frustration about the ordeal on social media, as the news made headlines across the international media space.

The NFF lodged formal protests with the Confederation of African football (CAF) to investigate the situation and determine necessary actions. 

Despite the setback, the Super Eagles remain steadfast, united in their decision to return home safely.

Nigeria’s football governing body has also publicly backed the Super Eagles team’s decision to effectively withdraw from the second leg fixture against Libya, while awaiting CAF’s verdict.