The Super Eagles were delayed for at least four hours at the international airport in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, before they finally departed for Abuja.
The flight was originally billed to take off by 3.30pm local time, but it eventually took off about 7.30pm.
Flight duration is 80 minutes, officials informed SCORENigeria
The players were dressed in matching all-green ceremonial uniforms.
The Federal Government of Nigeria headed by President Bola Tinubu has promised to honour the team for a splendid run at the 2023 AFCON against most expectations.
Vice President Kashim Shettima watched the AFCON Final and afterwards congratulated for reaching the championship game.
However, officials could not disclose to SCORENigeria when the Presidential reception will be.
The Super Eagles lost 2-1 to host country Cote d’Ivoire Sunday night in the 34th AFCON Final.
Nigeria have won the AFCON thrice, but have also lost five AFCON Finals.