Nigeria's Super Falcons are on their way to winning their tenth WAFCON (Women’s Africa Cup of Nations) title in a campaign dubbed “Mission X.†However, there have been major concerns about the lack of investment in women’s sports in Nigeria. Ironically, in recent years, they’ve been the most successful—ranging from D’Tigress reaching the quarterfinals of the Olympics to the Super Falcons dominating not just in Africa but on the global stage.
Recall that during the Olympics, the D’Tigress basketball team was reportedly denied the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the opening ceremony. Now, the major talking point is the Super Falcons, especially in light of reports of unpaid wages and bonuses. Nigerian journalist Osasu Obayiuwana revealed that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) owes several bonuses to the players, including match bonuses.
Another shock to Nigerians was the revelation that the Falcons apparently did not have proper training kits. In training pictures, they were seen wearing their match-day jerseys. In other images, they wore vests instead of official training kits supposedly to be provided by Nike, Nigeria's official kit sponsor.
Speaking to Nigerian journalist Osasu, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, instead of expressing concern, claimed he wanted to offer an explanation before Nigerians began “talking.†According to him, the kits had not been cleared by customs officials in Morocco. But let’s be honest—this excuse is simply unacceptable. Because you have months to prepare for this and you can't even make simple things like lots available? Failure to plan is planning to fail.
Despite finishing first in their group and qualifying for the quarterfinals, I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re knocked out by a more serious and better-prepared team. In the match against Botswana, they struggled to even string two passes together.
There is a clear lack of motivation.
Nigeria must do better.
The NFF must do better.
We cannot continue like this.
We deserve better .
Our Athletes Deserve better