By Aderonke Ojo
Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Mr Samuel Umoh, has warmly welcomed the Super Eagles of Nigeria to Uyo following their safe arrival at the Victor Attah International Airport on Sunday morning.
The team touched down at exactly 8:10 a.m. to a reception from officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the Akwa Ibom FA, and hundreds of fans who gathered to cheer the players after their delayed return from South Africa.
Mr Umoh, who was at the airport to personally receive the team, encouraged the players to put the stress of their interrupted journey behind them and focus on the crucial World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic on Tuesday.
He also called on football-loving Nigerians, especially fans in Akwa Ibom, to come out in large numbers to support the Super Eagles as they continue their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“We are happy to welcome our national team back to Uyo,” Mr Umoh said. “The people of Akwa Ibom are passionate about football and the Super Eagles. We urge the players to remain focused and give their best, and we call on our fans to fill the stadium and cheer them all the way as we keep hope alive.”
The Super Eagles’ arrival followed a mid-air emergency on Saturday, when their ValueJet chartered aircraft developed a cracked windscreen shortly after taking off from Luanda, Angola, during a refuelling stop.
After quick coordination between the NFF, ValueJet Airlines, and government agencies, a replacement aircraft was deployed, ensuring the team’s safe return home.
The Super Eagles are expected to resume training immediately ahead of Tuesday’s must-win fixture against Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
What a dramatic arrival! Our Super Eagles touched down safe and sound, thanks to some quick thinking NFF folks and a conveniently cracked windscreen! Poor ValueJet, hope your windscreen gets fixed. Its always exciting to see the team back home, even if its after such a whirlwind journey. Mr. Umohs encouragement to leave the travel stress behind and focus is spot on – lets hope they heed that advice! And Akwa Ibom, you heard the Chairman, bring the noise for your boys at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. Go Eagles, go!hẹn giờ online