Libya’s football leadership has been plunged into turmoil just days before their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier second-leg match against Nigeria, following the resignation of Libyan Football Federation President Abdul Hakim Al-Shalmani.
According to *Soccernet.ng*, Al-Shalmani submitted his resignation during a General Assembly meeting held at the Mahari Hotel in Tripoli on Sunday. The announcement comes in the wake of Libya’s 1-0 defeat to the Super Eagles in the first-leg clash last Friday, which intensified the pressure on the already embattled president.
Al-Shalmani, widely criticized for his tenure, reportedly stepped down to avoid a vote of no confidence. Numerous clubs had threatened to boycott the new season of the Libyan Premier League until his resignation was confirmed, signaling the discontent within the football community.
Having assumed the presidency in December 2018, Al-Shalmani faced consistent backlash from clubs, sports media, and the public for his lack of clear vision and failure to develop a long-term strategy for the growth of Libyan football. His resignation is seen by many as a move that came too late, as his leadership was deemed ineffective in delivering the progress Libyan football has longed for.
The resignation mirrors the internal dynamics that have plagued the Libyan Football Federation in recent years. Al-Shalmani’s predecessor, Jamal Al-Jaafari, was similarly ousted in December 2018 when the General Assembly withdrew confidence in him by a two-thirds majority.
With Libya currently at the bottom of their AFCON qualifying group, the sudden leadership change adds to the uncertainty surrounding the national team’s preparations for their decisive clash against Nigeria on Tuesday. The Super Eagles, who remain unbeaten in the qualifiers, will look to capitalize on the instability as Libya scrambles to regain focus.
The match is set to take place at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium, with Libya hoping to overcome both their off-field challenges and Nigeria’s formidable form. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 PM Nigerian time.
