(Super Falcons. Photo by Peoples Gazette)
The Nigeria Football Federation has issued a formal apology to President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian public following the Super Falcons’ inability to secure direct World Cup qualification at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau conveyed the apology through an official statement on behalf of the federation’s Executive Committee, the national team and the broader Nigerian football community.
The federation acknowledged the widespread disappointment among millions of Nigerians who support the squad, expressing regret over the failed qualification bid for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
In particular, the NFF offered a special apology to Tinubu, recognising the government’s substantial support and financial recognition bestowed upon the team following their earlier WAFCON championship victory.
The federation highlighted Tinubu’s administration’s demonstrated commitment to Nigerian sports development and the advancement of women’s participation in athletics.
Previous gestures of support including monetary rewards, national honours, residential properties and official receptions were cited as evidence of the President’s conviction regarding sports’ capacity to unite and motivate Nigerians.
The NFF expressed genuine remorse at having failed to reciprocate that confidence with the anticipated tournament outcome.
Apologies were extended to the National Assembly, National Sports Commission, commercial partners, institutional stakeholders and supporters domestically and internationally.
Nonetheless, the federation noted that qualifying avenues remain available through the CAF play-off pathway, with the Super Falcons pursuing one of two obtainable play-off positions leading toward ultimate World Cup participation.
The NFF committed to conducting comprehensive evaluation of team preparation, technical strategy, logistics and operational procedures to identify deficiencies.
Leadership pledged maximum effort to secure Nigeria’s 2027 World Cup berth, urging continued public backing as the squad pursues remaining qualification routes.