The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has issued a heartfelt apology to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government, and millions of disappointed football fans after the Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a statement posted on its official X handle, the NFF described Sunday’s loss to DR Congo in the Africa Play-off Final in Rabat as a moment of deep sadness for Nigerian football. For a nation where the Super Eagles represent unity, hope, and national pride, missing the World Cup for the second time in a row feels particularly painful.

According to the federation:

“The NFF, the technical crew, and the players understand the gravity of this moment. We understand the expectations Nigerians rightly hold… and we recognise that our collective effort did not deliver the outcome this nation deserved.”

The statement noted that emotions in the dressing room were raw, with many players struggling to speak as the reality of the defeat set in.

Throughout the qualification journey, the NFF acknowledged overwhelming support from the Federal Government, the National Sports Commission, National Assembly, MDAs, diplomatic missions, the media, and millions of passionate fans.

The body emphasized that football in Nigeria is more than entertainment—it is a national language that unites over 200 million people.

Looking ahead, the NFF says its immediate focus is on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, describing the tournament as an opportunity for healing, renewal, and a fresh start.

The federation also announced plans for a thorough review of the World Cup campaign, including technical, administrative, and structural lapses.

“We will rebuild trust, restore pride, and reclaim our standing on the global stage. This setback will not be the final word on Nigerian football,” the NFF assured.

The statement closed with a message of optimism, noting that just as Nigeria is known for resilience, the Super Eagles will also rise again.