The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has apologised to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government and Nigerians after the Super Falcons missed out on automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau issued the apology on behalf of the federation’s Executive Committee, the Super Falcons and the wider Nigerian football community.
Gusau acknowledged the disappointment caused by the team’s result, noting that the Falcons entered the tournament with the expectations and support of millions of Nigerians.
“We recognise the disappointment this result has caused millions of Nigerians who passionately support and identify with the Super Falcons,” Gusau said.
He also offered a special apology to President Tinubu, praising the president for his continued backing of Nigerian sports, particularly women’s sports.
The NFF recalled the rewards and national recognition given to the Super Falcons following their previous WAFCON success, including houses, honours and a presidential reception, while also highlighting the Federal Government’s support for the Super Eagles.
“Mr. President has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to Nigerian sports and, particularly, to the development and welfare of women in sports,” the statement said.
The federation admitted that the team’s latest result fell short of what was expected despite the confidence and backing received from the government.
“It is therefore with genuine humility and regret that we acknowledge that we have not been able to repay that confidence with the outcome expected at this stage of the competition,” it added.
The NFF also extended its apology to the National Assembly, National Sports Commission, sponsors, other football stakeholders and Nigerian fans both within the country and abroad.
However, the federation stressed that Nigeria’s World Cup hopes are still alive. The Super Falcons can pursue qualification through the CAF play-offs, where two World Cup places will be available, before potentially advancing to the FIFA play-off tournament.
“We must now regroup, learn from this setback and focus completely on the opportunity that remains,” Gusau said.
The NFF said it would conduct a comprehensive review of the team’s preparations, technical approach, logistics and other aspects of its operations to determine what needs to be improved.
“We hear the disappointment of Nigerians, we share it and we accept our responsibility. But we are not giving up,” the federation stated.
It further assured Nigerians that the NFF, coaching staff and players remain determined to secure a place at the 2027 World Cup and urged supporters to continue backing the Super Falcons as they fight to qualify through the remaining route.
