The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau MON, has assured Nigerians that the country’s National Teams will be well-prepared to deliver joy and glory to the nation in 2025. Speaking on Monday, Gusau reflected on the outgoing year and projected an optimistic outlook for the coming year, emphasizing the importance of readiness and competitive spirit at all levels.

Focused Preparations for National Teams

Gusau highlighted the Super Eagles’ decisive qualification for the 8th African Nations Championship (CHAN) after a commanding win over Ghana’s Black Galaxies. He attributed the success to early preparations and stressed the need for all National Teams to aim higher than mere participation in tournaments.

“The era of Nigerian teams arriving at major championships just to participate is gone,” Gusau stated. “Our objective now is to ensure our teams strongly contend for honors anywhere, and that starts with thorough preparations well before qualifiers and competitions. For instance, I insisted on early camping for the Super Eagles B, and the result is evident in their display against Ghana.

“With only one month left to CHAN, the team must go into camp immediately, and we will ensure that happens.”

Super Eagles and World Cup Aspirations

Despite challenges in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Gusau expressed confidence in revitalizing the Super Eagles. He pointed to their near-triumph at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire earlier this year as a foundation for future success.

“Our focus is to rebuild the squad that came so close to winning the AFCON title. If we can do that, winning the six remaining World Cup qualifying matches is achievable. Securing that ticket will set the tone for a remarkable AFCON campaign in Morocco.”

Super Falcons Poised for Glory

The NFF President also promised robust preparations for the Super Falcons, who ended 2024 as Africa’s top-ranked women’s team. He revealed plans to arrange more friendly matches to integrate new talents with seasoned players, positioning the team to reclaim the Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) crown in Morocco next summer.

“We are committed to building a formidable squad that will conquer Africa in style,” Gusau affirmed.

Spotlight on Junior Women’s Teams

Gusau praised the Falconets and Flamingos for their impressive performances at the FIFA U20 and U17 Women’s World Cups, respectively, in 2024. He urged the teams to view 2025 as a year of consolidation, particularly with the Flamingos aiming for the U17 Women’s World Cup title in Morocco.

“The Flamingos have the talent to conquer the world. Some players are already good enough to join the Super Falcons, and we want to see them bring home the U17 Women’s World Cup for the first time,” Gusau said. “The Falconets also have the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers ahead.”

Collaboration and Grassroots Development

Gusau emphasized the NFF’s commitment to collaborating with the National Sports Commission and securing corporate support for football programs and events. He reaffirmed the federation’s dedication to grassroots development to ensure a steady pipeline of talent for the National Teams.

“It’s a busy year for Nigerian football, and we are determined to achieve our goals while maintaining focus on nurturing young talent and sustaining the production channels for future stars.”

The NFF President’s ambitious plans signal a year of optimism and determination, with Nigerian football poised to achieve remarkable milestones in 2025.