The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has strongly condemned the racist abuse directed at Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo on social media following the theft incident involving the team's stay at the Marriott Hotel in Casablanca, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The federation's statement followed reports that a suspect accused of stealing cash from members of the Super Falcons squad was arrested by Moroccan authorities. According to the NFF, the stolen money was fully recovered, while the individual responsible was sentenced to six months in prison.
Despite the resolution of the case, Okoronkwo became the target of racist comments and offensive emojis on social media, prompting the NFF to issue a firm response in defence of the Nigerian international.
"The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) 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 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 and dignity of the Super Falcons, stressing that the team remains united and fully focused on its objectives at the tournament.
"The safety, dignity, and well-being of our players remain our utmost priority. The entire team stands united, unbothered by distractions, and fully focused on tomorrow's WAFCON2026 opener against Malawi."
The Super Falcons will begin the defence of their Women's Africa Cup of Nations title against tournament debutants Malawi at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday evening as they bid to win a record-extending 11th continental crown.