WAFCON Setback: NFF Apologises to Tinubu, Nigerians, Vows to Fight for World Cup Ticket

ABUJA — The Nigeria Football Federation has apologised to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government and Nigerians after the Super Falcons failed to secure direct qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup during the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau expressed regret over the outcome in a statement released on behalf of the federation’s Executive Committee, the Super Falcons and the entire Nigerian football family.

According to Gusau, the federation understands the disappointment caused by the result, particularly given the expectations surrounding the team.

“We recognise the disappointment this result has caused millions of Nigerians who passionately support and identify with the Super Falcons,” he 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 singled out President Tinubu for a special apology, praising his commitment to Nigerian sports and women’s participation in sports.

“Mr. President has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to Nigerian sports and, particularly, to the development and welfare of women in sports,” the federation said.

It pointed to the substantial rewards, national honours, houses and reception granted to the Super Falcons after their previous WAFCON triumph, alongside the President’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,” the statement said.

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

The federation also apologised to the National Assembly, National Sports Commission, sponsors, stakeholders and Nigerian fans across the country and in the diaspora.

However, the NFF noted that Nigeria’s World Cup hopes are still alive, with the Super Falcons able to pursue qualification through the CAF play-offs for two available tickets and subsequently 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 promised to undertake an honest assessment of the team’s preparation, technical planning, logistics and other aspects of its operations to address weaknesses.

“We hear the disappointment of Nigerians, we share it and we accept our responsibility. But we are not giving up,” the NFF said.

“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 expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their support and urged fans to continue backing the Super Falcons as they seek to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup through the remaining pathway.

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