The Nigeria Football Federation has condemned the racist abuse directed at Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo on social media following a recent incident at the team’s hotel in Morocco ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
In a statement released on Monday, the federation described the abuse as unacceptable, insisting that discrimination has no place in football or society.
“The Nigeria Football Federation strongly condemns the unacceptable racist abuse directed at Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo on social media following recent incidents at the team’s hotel in Morocco,” the statement read.
The NFF said the racist comments and emojis aimed at the striker were unjustifiable, especially as authorities had already identified and punished the individual responsible for the theft incident involving the team.
According to the federation, the suspect was apprehended, compelled to return the stolen cash in full and sentenced to six months in prison.
“The racist abuse and emojis directed at our player make absolutely no sense, especially as the individual responsible for the theft was apprehended, made to return the stolen cash in full, and sentenced to six months in prison,” the NFF stated.
The federation reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare of its players, stressing that their safety and dignity remain paramount.
“The safety, dignity and well-being of our players remain our utmost priority,” the statement added.
The NFF also sought to reassure Nigerians that the incident would not distract the team from its mission at the tournament.
“The entire team stands united, unbothered by distractions, and fully focused on tomorrow’s WAFCON 2026 opener against Malawi,” it said.
The statement follows reports of a theft incident at the Super Falcons’ hotel camp in Morocco, where the team is preparing for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Although the suspect was arrested, the stolen money recovered and a prison sentence handed down, Okoronkwo was subsequently subjected to racist abuse on social media, prompting the federation’s strong condemnation.
Nigeria will begin its WAFCON 2026 campaign against Malawi as it seeks another continental title.
