Playoffs Fallout : NFF apologises to Tinubu, Nigerians

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has publicly apologised to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government, and millions of Nigerians after the Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a statement posted on its X account on Monday, the NFF described Sunday’s loss to DR Congo in the Africa Play-off Final in Rabat as a very sad moment for Nigerian football.

The federation said missing the World Cup for the second time in a row is a heavy disappointment because football is a major source of pride and unity for the country.

The statement read:

“The NFF, the coaches, and the players understand how serious this moment is. We know the expectations Nigerians rightly have. We know the passion of a country that always stands behind its team. We also recognise that our efforts did not produce the result the nation deserved.

“In the dressing room after the match, the players were deeply hurt. Many could not even speak.”

The NFF also thanked the Federal Government, the National Assembly, ministries, diplomatic missions, the media, and the fans for their strong support throughout the qualification journey.

“Football in Nigeria is more than a sport. It is a language we all understand. It brings people together and gives us a sense of identity. We must honour that bond with sincerity, accountability, and action,” the federation said.

Looking ahead, the NFF said its next focus is the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. It believes the tournament is an opportunity to rebuild confidence and show the resilience that Nigerian football is known for.

The federation added that it will conduct a detailed review of all technical, administrative, and structural issues that contributed to the failure, and will take decisive steps to improve the national teams.

“The NFF promises Nigerians that we will rebuild trust, restore pride, and reclaim our place in world football. This setback will not be the end of the Super Eagles’ story.

“Nigeria is a nation of strength and hope. Just as we rise from every challenge, the Super Eagles will rise again.”