NFF Apologises to President Tinubu, Government and Nigerians Over Super Eagles’ World Cup Exit

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has issued a formal and heartfelt apology to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), the Federal Government, and the entire nation following the Super Eagles’ failure to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a statement released by its Communications Department, the Federation described Sunday’s defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the Africa Play-off Final in Rabat as “a moment of profound sadness for Nigerian football”. For a nation where the Super Eagles represent unity, national pride and collective hope, missing out on the World Cup for the second consecutive time was acknowledged as a painful setback.

According to the Federation, the NFF leadership, the technical team and the players fully appreciate the gravity of the disappointment felt across the country. It said Nigerians were right to expect a positive outcome, given their unwavering support, sacrifices and loyalty to the national team over the years.

The statement revealed that the atmosphere in the dressing room after the match was sombre, with several players visibly distressed and unable to speak as the reality of the defeat set in.

The Federation expressed deep gratitude to the Federal Government, through the National Sports Commission, the National Assembly, various Ministries, Departments and Agencies, the diplomatic community, the media, and the millions of passionate fans whose dedication and encouragement have remained steadfast throughout the qualification campaign.

It emphasised that football in Nigeria transcends sport, describing it as a national language and a powerful thread that binds over 200 million citizens together. In this regard, the NFF reaffirmed its responsibility to honour that bond with sincerity, accountability and decisive action.

Looking ahead, the Federation noted that immediate attention would now shift to preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, which commences in the coming months. It described the upcoming tournament as an opportunity for renewal and a platform to demonstrate the resilience traditionally associated with Nigerian football.

The NFF further disclosed that, in the coming days, its Board and Management would embark on a thorough and uncompromising review of the factors that contributed to the failure, including technical, administrative and structural shortcomings. It pledged to take bold steps to reposition the national teams for future success.

The statement concluded with a solemn commitment to the Nigerian people: to rebuild trust, restore national pride and reclaim the country’s standing in global football.

“Nigeria is a nation of resilience and unyielding hope. As our people rise from every challenge, so too will the Super Eagles,” the Federation affirmed.