Published: May 13, 2026
MONROVIA – The Liberian Ambassador to Nigeria, John Balu, on Monday visited the Liberia Deaf Football delegation at its hotel in Abuja amid growing concerns over delays in securing Serbian visas for the team.
Ambassador Balu said the visit was intended to hear directly from members of the delegation about the challenges they are facing ahead of their planned trip to Zlatibor, Serbia, where Liberia is scheduled to participate in the 2026 U-23 Deaf Football Tournament.
According to Okay FM Reporter, traveling with the squad, the delegation submitted online visa applications to the Serbian Embassy in Abuja on May 5 for players, technical staff, and team officials. However, as of Monday, no visas had been issued.
Speaking during the meeting, Ambassador Balu assured the delegation that efforts were underway to resolve the matter through diplomatic channels.
“I understand the frustration and anxiety this delay has caused, especially considering the importance of this tournament to the players and the country,” Balu said. “Since the issue was brought to my attention, I have been in constant communication with the Serbian Embassy here in Abuja to ensure the matter is addressed as quickly as possible.”
The ambassador said officials at the Serbian Embassy informed him that the delay was linked to pending authorization from Serbia’s Foreign Ministry.
“The embassy explained that it is awaiting clearance and authorization from the Foreign Ministry of Serbia before the visas can be issued,” he said. “I have also reached out to Liberia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to engage their Serbian counterparts so that this process can be expedited.”
Balu assured the delegation that the Liberian Embassy in Nigeria would continue to follow up on the matter until it is resolved.
“We remain committed to ensuring that our team travels to Serbia in time for the competition,” he said. “I want to assure all of you that we are doing everything within our power to bring this matter to a successful conclusion.”
Beyond the visa concerns, Ambassador Balu also inquired about the team’s level of preparedness for the tournament. He questioned the technical staff, led by head coach Briama Sesey, about the team’s training activities since arriving in Nigeria.
“Despite the current challenges, preparation must continue,” Balu told the players and coaches. “Remain focused, disciplined and committed. Opportunities like this are important not only for your personal growth but for the image of Liberia in international sports.”
Coach Sesey assured the ambassador that the team has remained active in training while awaiting the outcome of the visa process.
Meanwhile, head of delegation Hassan Kermokai praised Ambassador Balu for his swift intervention and continued engagement.
“We are grateful to Ambassador Balu for responding promptly to our concerns,” Kermokai said. “His involvement has given the players and officials hope that this situation will be resolved soon. The team remains determined and ready to represent Liberia proudly once the visas are issued.”
The Liberia Deaf Football delegation is expected to travel to Zlatibor, Serbia, for the 2026 U-23 Deaf Football Tournament once the visa process is completed.
Liberia has been drawn in Group B alongside Poland, Great Britain and Germany.
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