The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has clarified why the Super Eagles did not attend the medal ceremony following their third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Nigeria secured bronze on Saturday after defeating Egypt 4–2 on penalties. However, when Morocco and Senegal contested the final on Sunday, the Super Eagles were absent from the ceremony.

NFF President Ibrahim Gusau explained that the players had to leave immediately due to club commitments. Speaking in a post on X, quoted by journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, Gusau said the situation was not unique to Nigeria, noting that Egypt faced similar pressures.

“The players could not wait to receive their medals on Sunday. Their clubs were already after them to come back after Saturday’s game,” Gusau said. “I have the medals in my possession. And this is the case for Egypt too, not just us. Had the medal ceremony taken place on the day of the match, they would have had the medals.”