The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has apologised to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians following the Super Falcons’ failure to secure an automatic qualification ticket to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
In a statement issued by the NFF Communications Department, the federation’s president, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, expressed regret over the team’s inability to meet the expectations of millions of Nigerians who had backed the nine-time African champions.
Gusau, speaking on behalf of the NFF Executive Committee, the Super Falcons and the entire Nigerian football family, said the federation understood the disappointment the outcome had caused across the country.
He particularly apologised to President Tinubu, whom he described as a strong supporter of Nigerian sports and women’s football.
According to the NFF president, the federal government has consistently demonstrated commitment to the growth of sports, citing the recognition and rewards given to the Super Falcons after their previous WAFCON success, as well as support extended to other national teams.
“The football family will not forget the unprecedented recognition and rewards extended to the Super Falcons following their previous WAFCON triumph. These gestures reflected the value Mr. President places on Nigerian athletes and the role of sports in national development,” he said.
Gusau acknowledged that the team had fallen short of expectations despite enjoying the goodwill and support of the government and football-loving Nigerians.
The federation also extended its apology to the National Assembly, the National Sports Commission, sponsors, stakeholders, and supporters across the world.
Despite the setback, the NFF said hopes of qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup were still alive through the Confederation of African Football (CAF) play-off route.
Gusau stated that the Super Falcons would now focus on securing one of the available CAF play-off tickets before pursuing qualification through the FIFA intercontinental play-off tournament.
He assured Nigerians that the federation, coaching crew and players remained committed to ensuring the country secures a place at the World Cup.
“We hear the disappointment of Nigerians; we share it, and we accept our responsibility. But we are not giving up,” he said.
The NFF president added that the federation would conduct a thorough review of the team’s preparation, technical arrangements, logistics and overall operations to identify areas requiring improvement ahead of future competitions.
He urged Nigerians to continue supporting the team as it seeks another opportunity to qualify for the global tournament.
“Our resolve is to ensure that the Super Falcons return stronger, fight harder and do everything possible to make Nigerians proud once again,” Gusau added.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
