The Nigeria Football Federation has condemned racist abuse directed at Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo on social media. This followed an incident at the team’s hotel in Morocco.
According to a joint statement posted by the NFF and Nigeria Super Falcons on Instagram, the federation described the comments and racist emojis aimed at Okoronkwo as unacceptable.
The abuse followed the theft of money belonging to the player during the team’s stay in Morocco for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Moroccan authorities later arrested the person responsible, recovered the stolen cash and ordered its return to Okoronkwo. The offender also received a six-month prison sentence.
Despite the action taken by the authorities, some social media users targeted the Nigerian international with racist remarks. These users also posted monkey emojis.
NFF rejects Esther Okoronkwo racist abuse
The federation said discrimination had no place in football or society. In addition, it questioned why the player became the target of abuse after the theft case had been resolved.
“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.
It added that the racist attacks made no sense. This is because the person responsible for the theft had already been apprehended and punished.
“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 NFF said.
The federation reaffirmed its support for Okoronkwo. It also stressed that the safety, dignity and well-being of every Super Falcons player remained a priority.
Super Falcons remain focused on Malawi clash
The NFF said the controversy would not distract the team from its campaign at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
It added that the players remained united and focused on their opening match against Malawi.
“The entire team stands united, unbothered by distractions, and fully focused on tomorrow’s WAFCON 2026 opener against Malawi,” the statement said.
AFC Toronto, Okoronkwo’s club, had also expressed support for the player and condemned racism in football.
The Canadian club said football should remain a safe and respectful environment for every athlete, regardless of race or background.
Both organisations pledged to continue supporting Okoronkwo and others who face racism and discrimination on and off the pitch.
