The Nigeria Football Federation has apologised to President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians following the Super Falcons’ failure to secure automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
NFF President, 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 failure to secure a direct World Cup ticket, saying the Falcons had entered the tournament with the expectations and support of the country behind them.
“We recognise the disappointment this result has caused millions of Nigerians who passionately support and identify with the Super Falcons,” Gusau said.
“The team went into the competition carrying the hopes of the nation and the enormous goodwill and support of the Federal Government, and we regret that we were unable to deliver the result expected at this stage.”
The NFF also specifically apologised to President Tinubu, highlighting his support for Nigerian sports and his commitment to the development and welfare of female athletes.
“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 recalled the rewards, national honours, houses and reception given to the Super Falcons after their previous WAFCON triumph, as well as the Federal Government’s continued backing of the Super Eagles.
“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.”
Beyond the President, the NFF extended its apology to the National Assembly, National Sports Commission, sponsors, other stakeholders and Nigerian fans at home and abroad.
Despite missing out on automatic qualification, the federation noted that Nigeria still has an opportunity to reach the 2027 World Cup through the CAF play-offs, where two tickets will be available, before a further route through the FIFA play-off tournament.
Gusau said the federation would now shift its attention to the remaining qualification pathway.
“We must now regroup, learn from this setback and focus completely on the opportunity that remains,” Gusau said.
“The NFF, technical team and players are committed to doing everything within their power to secure Nigeria’s place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.”
The NFF also promised to conduct a comprehensive review of the team’s preparation and campaign, including its technical planning, logistics and other operational areas, with a view to correcting identified shortcomings.
“We hear the disappointment of Nigerians, we share it and we accept our responsibility. But we are not giving up,” the statement added. “Our resolve is to ensure that the Super Falcons return stronger, fight harder and do everything possible to make Mr. President, the Federal Government and Nigerians proud once again.”
The federation thanked Nigerians for their continued support and called on supporters to remain behind the Super Falcons as the team seeks to secure qualification through the remaining route to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
