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The Nigeria Football Federation has apologised to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians following the Super Falcons’ failure to secure automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, in a statement on behalf of the federation’s Executive Committee, the Super Falcons and the Nigerian football family, expressed regret over the outcome.
Gusau acknowledged the disappointment caused to millions of Nigerians who passionately support the women’s national team, saying the Falcons entered the competition carrying the hopes of the country.
“The team went into the competition carrying the hopes of the nation and the enormous goodwill and support of the Federal Government,” he said.
He also tendered a special apology to President Tinubu, citing the President’s strong commitment to Nigerian sports and the development and welfare of women athletes.
The NFF recalled the substantial rewards, national honours, houses and reception granted to the Super Falcons after their previous WAFCON triumph, as well as the 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,” Gusau said.
The federation also apologised to the National Assembly, National Sports Commission, sponsors, stakeholders and Nigerian supporters at home and abroad.
Despite the setback, Gusau said Nigeria still has a pathway to the 2027 World Cup through the CAF play-offs, where two tickets will be available before the FIFA play-off tournament.
“We must now regroup, learn from this setback and focus completely on the opportunity that remains,” he said.
Gusau assured Nigerians that the NFF, technical team and players remained committed to securing the country’s place at the tournament.
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,” Gusau added.
He said the federation’s immediate priority was to ensure that the Super Falcons returned stronger and fought harder for the remaining World Cup qualification opportunity.
The NFF subsequently thanked Nigerians for their support and urged them to continue backing the Super Falcons as the team pursues the remaining route to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
