The Nigeria Football Federation issued a formal apology on Tuesday to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians. The statement followed the Super Falcons’ 1-0 quarter-final defeat to Cameroon at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Cameroon scored through Maéva Nyadjou in the 19th minute at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. The result ended Nigeria’s title defence and denied the team one of the four automatic qualification places for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, president of the Nigeria Football Federation, spoke on behalf of the NFF Executive Committee, the Super Falcons and the Nigerian football family. He expressed deepest regrets over the Super Falcons’ failure to secure a direct qualification ticket.
“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.”
Gusau extended a special apology to Tinubu. He noted the president’s commitment to Nigerian sports and the development of women in sports. The statement recalled previous rewards, national honours, houses and a reception given to the Super Falcons after an earlier WAFCON triumph.
“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 stated. “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, the National Sports Commission, sponsors, stakeholders and supporters at home and abroad.
Despite the setback, the NFF pointed to a remaining pathway through the CAF play-offs for two tickets, followed by the FIFA play-off tournament. Gusau said the Super Falcons remain determined to fight for qualification.
“We must now regroup, learn from this setback and focus completely on the opportunity that remains,” he 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.”
