Eagles Make Safe Landing Following Mid-Air Scare

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have reached Uyo, Akwa Ibom, after a challenging 24-hour journey that included a scary incident during their flight. The team had just won a World Cup qualifier 2-1 against Lesotho in Polokwane, South Africa, when their chartered flight had to make an emergency landing in Luanda, Angola, on Saturday night.

The incident occurred shortly after the ValueJet aircraft refueled and took off. Reports say a loud crack appeared on the windscreen, prompting the pilots to return immediately to Luanda and land safely.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the event and commended the crew’s professionalism. “The aircraft suffered a cracked windscreen mid-air after take-off, and the pilot did well to guide the aeroplane safely back to the airport in Luanda,” stated the NFF.

Team media officer Promise Efoghe confirmed their arrival, saying, “Finally, Super Eagles arrive in Uyo, Akwa Ibom. The team touched down at 8.05 am on Sunday morning.”

The NFF coordinated quickly with ValueJet and government officials, including the Ministers of Aviation and Foreign Affairs, to arrange a replacement aircraft from Lagos.

Premier League players Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Frank Onyeka, Tolu Arokodare, as well as star striker Victor Osimhen and forward Ademola Lookman, were all on the flight.

Despite the incident, all players and officials are safe and are expected to begin training right away for Tuesday’s important 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic.