‘We Failed the Nation’ — Gusau Apologises to Tinubu Over Falcons’ WAFCON Failure
Nigeria Football Federation President Ibrahim Musa Gusau has admitted that the football body and the Super Falcons “failed the nation” after Nigeria missed out on a direct ticket to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Gusau, speaking on behalf of the NFF Executive Committee, the Super Falcons and the wider Nigerian football family, expressed deep regret over the setback and apologised to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and millions of disappointed Nigerians.
The NFF president acknowledged that the Super Falcons entered the competition carrying the hopes of the nation, backed by enormous goodwill and support from the Federal Government, but failed to produce the result expected at this stage.
“We hear the disappointment of Nigerians, we share it and we accept our responsibility. But we are not giving up,” the NFF said.
Gusau offered a special apology to President Tinubu, who the federation said had demonstrated exceptional commitment to Nigerian sports, particularly women’s football.
The NFF recalled the substantial rewards and national recognition given to the Super Falcons following their previous WAFCON triumph, including financial rewards, national honours, houses and a special reception.
The federation said it was therefore with “genuine humility and regret” that it acknowledged its inability to repay the President’s confidence with the expected outcome.
The apology was also extended to the National Assembly, National Sports Commission, sponsors, stakeholders and Nigerian supporters at home and abroad.
Despite the disappointment, Nigeria’s 2027 World Cup dream remains alive through the CAF play-off pathway.
The NFF said the Super Falcons will now fight for one of the two available CAF play-off tickets before pursuing qualification through the FIFA play-off tournament.
Gusau also promised an honest review of the team’s preparation, technical planning, logistics and overall operations to identify areas requiring improvement.
The NFF said it remains committed to ensuring that the Super Falcons return stronger and do everything possible to restore national pride by securing Nigeria’s place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
