The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has issued a heartfelt apology to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government, and millions of Nigerians following the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement, the NFF described Sunday’s loss to DR Congo in the Africa Play-off Final in Rabat as “a moment of profound sadness for Nigerian football.” The federation acknowledged the Super Eagles’ symbolic role in uniting the nation and expressed deep regret for missing the World Cup for a second consecutive time.
“The NFF, the technical crew, and the players understand the gravity of this moment,” the statement read. “We recognise that our collective effort did not deliver the outcome this nation deserved.”
The federation highlighted the immense support received from the Federal Government, key ministries, agencies, diplomatic missions, the media, and passionate fans throughout the qualification campaign.
Football, the NFF noted, is more than a game in Nigeria—it is “a national language, a bridge across cultures, a source of pride and emotional identity.”
Looking ahead, the NFF said its focus will shift to the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025. The board and management will conduct a “rigorous review process” to address technical, administrative, and structural gaps that contributed to the World Cup setback.
The NFF concluded by reaffirming its commitment to Nigerians: “We will rebuild trust. We will restore pride. We will reclaim our standing on the global stage. We will not allow this disappointment to be the final word on Nigerian football.”
The statement reflects a pledge to strengthen the national team and ensure future success, highlighting Nigeria’s resilience and determination to bounce back on the international football stage.
Melissa Enoch
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