President Bola Tinubu has praised the Super Eagles for their efforts in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, following Nigeria’s dramatic elimination at the hands of DR Congo. The playoff final ended in heartbreak after a 4-3 penalty shootout loss, following a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu acknowledged the dedication and commitment of the Nigerian players throughout the qualification process. He called on fans and stakeholders to continue supporting the national team.
“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them,” the president said. “We must now plug all the loopholes. Our football administrators, players, and indeed all stakeholders must go back to the drawing board.”
The president stressed that the setback should not overshadow Nigeria’s football ambitions, urging the team to channel their energy into preparing for the upcoming African Cup of Nations. Tinubu emphasized the importance of recovering national football’s lost glory.
He also called on sports administrators to review strategies and improve the management of Nigerian football to prevent similar disappointments in future international competitions. The focus, he noted, must be on both structural reforms and talent development.
Nigeria’s exit from the 2026 World Cup has reignited debates about the Super Eagles’ preparation and the broader state of football administration in the country. Critics have cited administrative inefficiencies and lack of adequate support for players as factors undermining performance on the world stage.
Despite the disappointment, Tinubu’s statement signals government backing for the team, highlighting a commitment to future success at continental tournaments and the importance of national unity through sports.
