An NFF official confirmed to SportPremi that a cracked windscreen on the ValueJet Airline aircraft conveying the Super Eagles from Polokwane, South Africa, to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, caused an emergency landing in Luanda, Angola, on Sunday afternoon.
The team was returning to Nigeria following their 2–1 victory over Lesotho in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers when the incident occurred. The technical issue has delayed the delegation’s arrival ahead of Tuesday’s crucial clash against Benin Republic.
What Happened Mid-Flight
An NFF official confirmed to SportPremi that the ValueJet aircraft, which had earlier transported some members of the Super Eagles delegation to Polokwane on Thursday, developed a crack shortly after taking off from Luanda. At that point, it had stopped for refuelling. The same aircraft was also used during the team’s previous travels, including their Matchday 8 qualifier against South Africa in Bloemfontein last month.
“After a routine refueling stop in Luanda, Angola, the aircraft suffered a cracked windscreen mid-air after take-off,” the NFF official confirmed to SportPremi. “The pilot did well to guide the airplane safely back to the airport in Luanda.”
Fortunately, there were no injuries or immediate danger to passengers. The pilot has been commended for his quick thinking and professionalism in ensuring the safe landing of the aircraft.
Nigeria Government and Airline Response
The NFF official also confirmed that ValueJet Airline is working closely with several federal agencies to resolve the situation. Among those involved are the Minister of Aviation, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Chief of Staff to the President.
Efforts are currently underway to obtain overflying and landing permits for another aircraft from Lagos to fly to Luanda. The new plane will pick up the Super Eagles delegation and continue the trip to Uyo.
Officials have assured that the situation is being handled as a top priority. They are confident that the team will arrive safely and on time for the all-important fixture against Benin Republic.
Super Eagles Schedule Affected
The emergency landing has slightly disrupted the travel schedule. Their planned arrival and recovery training session in Uyo will now be rescheduled.
Team officials have confirmed to SportPremi that all players and staff are safe. They remain in good spirits despite the setback. Depending on flight clearance and coordination, the delegation is expected to arrive in Uyo before Tuesday clash against Benin Republic.
Meanwhile, the Benin Republic national team arrived in Uyo earlier on Sunday and are expected to train at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium ahead of Tuesday’s encounter.
A High-Stakes Fixture Awaits
Tuesday’s CAF World Cup qualifier in Uyo will be decisive for Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup hopes. The Super Eagles currently sit third in Group C with 14 points. They trail leaders Benin with 17 and second-placed South Africa with 15 points. A win against Benin is non-negotiable if Nigeria is to keep their qualification dream alive, while any dropped points could end their chances of direct qualification.
