Nigeria President Bola Tinubu charges Super Eagles to focus all efforts on 2025 AFCON after World Cup heartbreak

The President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has called on the Super Eagles to redirect their efforts toward the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following Nigeria’s heartbreaking exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The three-time African champions suffered a tense 4-3 penalty defeat to DR Congo after a 1-1 draw in extra time, a result that has left the nation in deep footballing disappointment.

In an official statement released by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu urged calm and unity, emphasising the need for immediate reforms to address systemic issues in Nigerian football.

“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them.

“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,” the President said.

Nigeria’s inability to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup means they have failed to reach the global tournament for the second consecutive time.