President Bola Tinubu has commended the Super Eagles for their efforts in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, despite their dramatic exit at the hands of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The President has urged the team to move past the disappointment and concentrate on the upcoming African Nations Cup, scheduled to hold from December 2025 to January 2026 in Morocco.
According to a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information and Strategy, on November 17, 2025, the President expressed appreciation for the team’s dedication and resilience.
He said, “Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them.”
The Super Eagles’ World Cup dream ended on Sunday night after a 1-1 draw in extra time against DR Congo, with the visitors winning 4-3 on penalties to advance to the Inter-Confederation play-off. This marks the second consecutive tournament Nigeria has missed qualification for.
President Tinubu further emphasized the need for reflection and preparation for future competitions.
He remarked, “We must now plug all the loopholes. Our football administrators, players, and indeed all stakeholders must go back to the drawing board. Now is the time to focus all efforts on the Cup of Nations. Our Super Eagles must recover the lost glory.”
