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The Super Falcons of Nigeria are facing unexpected off-field challenges at the ongoing 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, as they continue training and playing in outdated gear due to a delay in clearing their official kits from Moroccan customs.
Despite assurances from Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau last weekend that the situation would be resolved by Friday or Saturday, the newly shipped kits—supplied by Nike—have yet to reach the team.
“The kits are currently in Casablanca but have not been cleared by Moroccan customs,” a team official told reporters. “DHL Global has attempted to facilitate the release and delivery to the team’s hotel but has so far been unsuccessful.”
The gear, meant to provide the Super Falcons with fresh match kits and training equipment, has been held up by Administration des Douanes et Impôts Indirects (ADII), Morocco’s customs and excise authority, for over a week.
Efforts by NFF representatives to fast-track the process have included direct communication with the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF) in Rabat. However, progress has been slow.
“Every country has its own processes—sometimes they’re straightforward, and other times they’re cumbersome,” the official added, expressing cautious optimism that the issue would be resolved soon.
UK-based Nigerian sports journalist Osasu Obayiuwana also confirmed the situation, stating that the shipment remains in a customs warehouse despite Nigeria having completed their group stage fixtures.
“The kits arrived over a week ago and are still sitting in the customs warehouse. The NFF is still actively working to get them released,” Obayiuwana reported on Sunday.
As a result, the nine-time African champions have been forced to continue their WAFCON campaign wearing old match-day jerseys and improvised training outfits, which has raised concerns about player morale and professionalism.
The delay comes at a critical point in the tournament as Nigeria—considered one of the favourites—continues to chase another continental title. With quarterfinal clash against Zambia on Friday, ensuring the players are properly equipped remains a priority for team management.
This situation, while administrative in nature, underscores the logistical challenges that can impact even top-tier national teams during major tournaments—and it puts pressure on both local organizers and the NFF to resolve the matter swiftly.