The Nigeria Football Federation on Monday extended an unreserved apology to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government and the country’s vast community of football supporters following the Super Eagles’ failure to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The federation’s message came less than 24 hours after Nigeria was eliminated by the Democratic Republic of Congo in the decisive Africa play-off held in Rabat, a result that has plunged the nation’s football community into disappointment.
The NFF described the setback as a painful moment for a country where the senior men’s team has long been regarded as a powerful source of national pride and unity.
With Nigeria now absent from the World Cup for a second straight edition, the federation admitted that the outcome carries deep emotional weight for supporters who expected a return to the global stage.
In the statement, officials said the federation, coaching crew and players fully recognise the frustration felt by citizens who have consistently backed the team through successes and difficult periods alike.
They noted that the commitment and passion shown by Nigerians deserved a better reward.
The NFF added that it is taking full responsibility for the failed campaign and pledged to undertake a thorough review aimed at preventing a repeat of such disappointment, while working to restore public confidence in the national team.
