NFF condemns racist abuse of Esther Okoronkwo, says Nigeria focused on WAFCON opener
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has strongly condemned the racist abuse directed at Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo on social media following recent incidents involving the team’s stay at a hotel in Morocco.
In a statement released on the eve of Nigeria’s opening match at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), the federation described the online attacks as unacceptable, reiterating that discrimination has no place in football or society.
“The Nigeria Football Federation strongly condemns the unacceptable racist abuse directed at Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo on social media following recent incidents at the team’s hotel in Morocco,” the statement read.
The NFF stressed that the racist comments and emojis aimed at the Nigerian international were unjustifiable, particularly as the individual responsible for the theft had already been identified and prosecuted.
“Discrimination in any form has no place in football or society. The racist abuse and emojis directed at our player make absolutely no sense, especially as the individual responsible for the theft was apprehended, made to return the stolen cash in full, and sentenced to six months in prison.”
The federation reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare of its players, insisting that the safety, dignity and well-being of every member of the Super Falcons remain paramount.
“The safety, dignity and well-being of our players remain our utmost priority,” the NFF added.
Despite the off-field controversy, the federation said the players have remained united and undistracted as they prepare to begin their quest for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
“The entire team stands united, unbothered by distractions, and fully focused on tomorrow’s WAFCON 2026 opener against Malawi.”
The Super Falcons begin their Group B campaign against tournament debutants Malawi before facing Zambia and Egypt as they seek to retain their continental crown and further extend their dominance in African women’s football.
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