WAFCON: NFF apologises to Tinubu, Nigerians over Super Falcons’ setback

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has apologised to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government and Nigerians following the Super Falcons’ failure to secure direct qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, issued the apology on behalf of the federation’s Executive Committee, the Super Falcons and the Nigerian football family.

Gusau said the federation recognised the disappointment caused by the team’s inability to secure direct qualification at this stage of the competition.

“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.”

NFF Apologises to Tinubu

The federation offered a special apology to President Tinubu, citing his support for Nigerian sports and women athletes.

According to the NFF, the President had demonstrated “an exceptional commitment” to Nigerian sports, particularly the development and welfare of women in sports.

The federation recalled the substantial rewards, national honours, houses and reception given to the Super Falcons following their previous WAFCON triumph, as well as the Federal Government’s continued support for 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,” the statement said.

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

The NFF also extended its apology to the National Assembly, the National Sports Commission, sponsors, stakeholders and Nigerian supporters in Nigeria and abroad.

‘We Are Not Giving Up’

Despite the setback, the federation said Nigeria still has a route to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup through the CAF play-offs, where two World Cup tickets will be available, followed by the FIFA play-off tournament.

“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 federation also pledged to conduct an honest assessment of the team’s preparation, technical planning, logistics and overall operations to identify areas requiring improvement.

“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 NFF thanked Nigerians for their continued support and urged supporters to remain behind the Super Falcons as the team pursues the remaining route to qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.