‘A painful moment’: NFF issues public apology to Tinubu over world cup failure

The Nigeria Football Federation has tendered an unreserved apology to President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Government, and millions of Nigerians after the Super Eagles failed to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Sport360NG reports.

In a statement released on Monday, the NFF described Sunday’s defeat to DR Congo in the Africa Playoff Final in Rabat as “a deeply painful moment for Nigerian football.”

“For a country where the Super Eagles embody unity, hope, and national pride, missing the World Cup for the second time in a row carries immense emotional weight,” the federation said.

The NFF admitted the magnitude of the setback, noting that the leadership, coaching staff, and players are fully aware of the expectations Nigerians place on the team.

“We recognise the passion and unwavering support of a nation that stands with its team through victories and setbacks. We also acknowledge that our collective efforts fell short of what Nigerians deserved,” the statement continued.

According to the federation, the atmosphere in the dressing room after the defeat was sombre, with several players unable to find words to express their emotions.

The NFF also extended appreciation to the Federal Government, through the National Sports Commission, the National Assembly, relevant ministries, MDAs, diplomatic missions, the media, and supporters, for their consistent backing throughout the World Cup qualifying campaign.

The statement underscored the significance of football in Nigeria, describing it as “a shared language that bridges cultures, strengthens identity, and unites more than 200 million people.”

With the disappointment behind them, the federation said attention now shifts to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, calling the tournament “a chance for healing, renewal, and reaffirming the resilience that defines Nigerian football.”

The NFF pledged to embark on an “honest and strategic” review of its operations to address the technical and administrative shortcomings that contributed to the World Cup miss.

“Our commitment to Nigerians is firm: we will rebuild confidence, restore pride, and reclaim our place on the global stage. This disappointment will not define the future of Nigerian football,” the statement concluded.

Meanwhile, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has apologised for his behaviour after the game following a heated exchange with a member of DR Congo’s staff.

“Football is emotional. After the match, I reacted to an incident involving a DRC staff member entering my technical area,” Chelle wrote on Instagram.

“I never intended to disrespect the Congolese people or their team, whom I hold in high regard. I’m disappointed by our elimination but proud of my players. Congratulations to Congo, they were the better team. Their supporters showed great passion, just like ours. We move forward.”

Midfielder Frank Onyeka also shared the squad’s disappointment, telling journalist Osasu Obayiuwana that the team feels the same pain Nigerians are experiencing.

“We’re hurting just as much as the fans. Nigerians have every right to be upset. Missing the World Cup is very tough,” Onyeka said.

“Some of us may not still be here by 2030, and that makes it even more painful. But AFCON is in 34 days, we have to regroup and aim for a much better performance than the last edition.”