NFF Apologizes to Tinubu, Nigerians Over Falcons’ Missed Direct World Cup Qualification

By Dorcas Francis Koji

The Nigeria Football Federation has apologised to President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians following the Super Falcons’ failure to secure automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

NFF President Ibrahim Gusau tendered the apology on behalf of the federation, the Super Falcons and the wider Nigerian football family in a statement issued on Tuesday.

Gusau acknowledged the disappointment caused to millions of Nigerians who passionately supported the Super Falcons during their campaign at the ongoing 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

He also recognised the support provided by the Federal Government to the team, particularly the recognition and rewards given to the Falcons after their previous WAFCON triumph.

“We wish to extend a special and heartfelt apology to His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic, Bola Tinubu, for this disappointment.

“It is 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,” Gusau said.

The NFF president also extended the federation’s apology to the National Assembly, National Sports Commission, sponsors, stakeholders and Nigerian supporters at home and abroad.

Despite the setback, Gusau stressed that Nigeria’s World Cup hopes remain alive through the CAF play-off route.

“A window of opportunity remains through the CAF play-off pathway, and the Super Falcons are determined to fight for one of the two available CAF play-off tickets,” he said.

He added that the NFF, technical team and players remain committed to ensuring that Nigeria secures a place at the 2027 World Cup through the remaining qualification pathway.

Gusau also revealed that the federation would conduct a comprehensive review of the team’s campaign, including its preparations, technical planning, logistics and overall operations.

“The NFF will also undertake an honest assessment of our preparation, technical planning, logistics and overall operations, with a determination 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,” he added.

The Super Falcons, who were seeking a record-extending 11th WAFCON title, were eliminated in the quarter-finals after a 1-0 defeat to Cameroon.

Nigeria must now overcome South Africa in the CAF play-off to keep alive their hopes of maintaining their record of qualifying for every edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.