NFF apologises to President Tinubu, Nigerians over WAFCON setback

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has formally apologized to the Nigerian government and its citizens following the Super Falcons' inability to secure direct qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup during the ongoing Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

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We recognise the disappointment this result has caused millions of Nigerians who passionately support and identify with the Super Falcons.

NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau expressed deep regret on behalf of the federation, the team, and the entire Nigerian football family. He acknowledged the widespread disappointment among Nigerians who passionately support the Super Falcons. Gusau stated that the team carried the nation's hopes and the government's significant goodwill, regretting that they could not deliver the expected result at this stage.

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Mr. President has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to Nigerian sports and, particularly, to the development and welfare of women in sports.

A special apology was extended to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, recognizing his strong commitment to Nigerian sports, particularly women athletes. The NFF recalled the substantial rewards, national honors, and support previously given to the Super Falcons after their past WAFCON success, as well as ongoing support for the Super Eagles. The federation humbly admitted they had not repaid this confidence with the desired outcome.

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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. We sincerely apologise to Mr. President and deeply appreciate his continued interest, encouragement and investment in Nigerian football.

Despite this setback, the NFF highlighted that a pathway to the World Cup remains open through CAF play-offs, followed by the FIFA play-off tournament. Gusau affirmed the commitment of the NFF, technical team, and players to regroup, learn from the experience, and focus on securing Nigeria's place in the 2027 tournament. The federation also promised an honest assessment of preparation and operations to identify areas for improvement, assuring Nigerians that they would not give up and would strive to make the nation proud.

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We must now regroup, learn from this setback and focus completely on the opportunity that remains.