NFF apologises to President Tinubu and Nigerians after Super Falcons miss direct 2027 World Cup qualification

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has apologised to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians after the Super Falcons failed to secure a direct qualification place for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup at the ongoing 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

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

The federation acknowledged the disappointment caused by the result to millions of supporters who closely identify with the national team. The Super Falcons entered the tournament carrying the hopes of the country, as well as strong backing from the Federal Government, but were unable to produce the outcome expected at this stage of the competition.

Gusau also offered a special apology to President Tinubu, who is Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The NFF said Mr. President had shown “exceptional” commitment to Nigerian sport, particularly to the development and welfare of women in sports. It highlighted the recognition and rewards given to the Super Falcons after their previous Women’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph, including significant financial rewards, national honours, houses and an extraordinary reception.

The federation added that the Tinubu administration had continued to support and reward excellence across Nigerian football, including the Super Eagles. It said those gestures represented more than material benefits, reflecting the president’s regard for Nigerian athletes and his belief in sport’s ability to unite and inspire the public.

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

The apology was also extended to the National Assembly, the National Sports Commission, sponsors, stakeholders and supporters of the Super Falcons in Nigeria and around the world.

Despite missing the direct route, Nigeria still has an opportunity to reach the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The Super Falcons will compete for one of the two available CAF play-off tickets before attempting to qualify through the FIFA play-off tournament.

The NFF said the team, technical staff and players would now regroup, learn from the setback and concentrate fully on the remaining pathway. It pledged that everyone involved would do everything possible to secure Nigeria’s place at the World Cup.

The federation said that commitment was owed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian people, the generations of Super Falcons players who had built the team’s legacy and the young girls who dream of representing Nigeria internationally.

It also announced plans for an honest review of the team’s preparation, technical planning, logistics and wider operations. The purpose of that assessment will be to identify areas that require improvement and ensure the Super Falcons are better prepared for the challenges ahead.

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

The federation urged Nigerians to continue supporting the Super Falcons as they pursue the remaining route to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027, insisting that the team would return stronger, compete with greater determination and work to restore pride in the national side.