Nigerian football fans are once again calling for NFF President Ibrahim Gusau to step down following the Super Falcons’ failure to qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
The anger played out across social media hours after South Africa knocked Nigeria out. Supporters said the latest exit was the last straw in a run of poor results.
“The NFF President needs to tender a resignation letter before daybreak and NOT an apology letter,” wrote @SarkinFoto.
Ben Marke added: “In a sane society this guy ought to resign and apologize for wasting our time.”
@Weirdmaskman NG questioned why Gusau would stay: “A responsible person would read the room and call it quits while he’s behind.”
Others were harsher. @Martins7906202 wrote he should “face jail time not just resign,” while Olatunji Balogun posted on Facebook: “If FIFA wants to ban Nigeria the time is Now Because Gusau Must Go.”
The frustration is rooted in results. For the second straight cycle, Nigeria missed the men’s World Cup after losing to DR Congo on penalties in November 2025. With the Falcons also out, Nigeria will miss both men’s and women’s World Cups at the same time for the first time.
Gusau defends NFF’s work
Speaking in Morocco before the South Africa game, Gusau defended the federation’s preparations. He cited friendlies against Cameroon in November and March, and a planned game against Senegal.
“We are coming for an African tournament. Nobody should expect us to go and arrange a match for the Super Falcons against Norway or Sweden,” he said, adding that logistics and cost make African opponents more realistic.
He asked for patience: “we just want you to be patient with us, and we are very sure… the girls have now gained their strength.”
The criticism extends beyond the senior teams. The Golden Eaglets have missed three straight U-17 World Cups, and the Flying Eagles risk missing the next U-20 tournament.
Election looms amid legal challenge
Despite the backlash, Gusau is preparing to seek a second term. The NFF Elective Congress is now set for 27 September in Lafia, moved from 26 September because the Super Eagles play Madagascar on 25 September.
Former captain Segun Odegbami has said he will go to court seeking interpretation of NFF statutes and a possible halt to the election, citing concerns about congress structure and funding.
Under FIFA rules, member associations must manage affairs independently. That means the decision rests with the NFF Congress, not public pressure.
With the September vote approaching, Gusau’s record on coaching, competitions and development will be weighed against a simple question from fans: have those programs produced stronger teams.
