President Bola Tinubu has praised the Super Eagles for what he described as their “best efforts” in the World Cup qualification campaign, despite the team’s defeat in Sunday’s playoff match against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a statement released on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President encouraged the national team to put the setback behind them and begin immediate preparations for the 2025 African Cup of Nations scheduled to take place in Morocco from December 2025 to January 2026.
Nigeria missed out on a World Cup spot for the second time in a row after DR Congo won 4–3 on penalties in Morocco.
Tinubu acknowledged that the result was painful for Nigerians but insisted the team deserved commendation for their commitment throughout the qualifying series, especially after securing victory in their first playoff match.
“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them,” the President said.
He described the defeat as an opportunity for reflection, urging football administrators, players, and other stakeholders to address existing gaps and rebuild the national team’s competitiveness.
“Now is the time to focus all efforts on the Cup of Nations. Our Super Eagles must recover the lost glory,” President Tinubu stated.
