The Super Eagles have assured Nigerians that missing the FIFA World Cup will not become a recurring story, according to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, who says the players have pledged to return to football’s biggest stage in the next qualifying campaign, Footynaija.com reports.
Wike disclosed that former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo delivered the government’s message to the national team following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. He added that feedback from the players left him convinced they understand the weight of the disappointment felt across the country.
Nigeria’s qualification hopes ended painfully after a penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in the African playoffs, having earlier missed out on an automatic ticket. The setback extended the Super Eagles’ wait for a World Cup return after their last appearance at Russia 2018.
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Speaking during the commissioning of roads linking the Mabushi Bus Terminal and Ahmadu Way in Abuja, Wike shared the response he received from the players through Yobo.
“They have told him that this will be the last time such a mistake will occur, that in the subsequent World Cup, Nigeria will be there. So their sins have been forgiven.”
The minister’s latest remarks came just days after he openly criticised the Super Eagles over the failed qualification campaign, insisting Nigerians expected much more from a squad packed with players competing in some of Europe’s biggest leagues.
At the time, Wike challenged Yobo to relay the country’s frustration to the team, arguing that Nigeria should never be watching the World Cup from home while nations with less football pedigree are taking part.
“We are not happy,” Wike had said.
