Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has signed a new two-year contract extension with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), a deal that will see him remain in charge until October 2027.
Contract extension comes after WAFCON qualification
Madugu confirmed the development shortly after Nigeria booked their spot at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a 1-1 draw against Benin Republic at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, on Tuesday, sealing a 3-1 aggregate victory.
“I have been given a new contract from October 1, 2025 till October 1, 2027,” Madugu announced during his post-match press briefing.
The 61-year-old’s renewal shows the NFF’s confidence in his leadership as the Falcons prepare to defend their continental crown and target qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Mixed display in Benin draw
Despite advancing comfortably, Madugu admitted his team’s performance fell short of expectations.
“The draw didn’t come as a surprise because we knew it would be tough,” he said. “However, I want to apologise to Nigerians for not meeting expectations. Every time the Falcons play, there are high standards, today just wasn’t our best.”
Defender Ashleigh Plumptre opened the scoring with a fine header from Esther Okoronkwo’s corner in the 12th minute, her first goal for Nigeria, before Benin equalised later in the match.
Madugu described the result as a “wake-up call”, stressing the need for improvement before next year’s tournament scheduled for March 17 to April 3, 2026.
Divided opinion despite success
Since replacing American coach Randy Waldrum, Madugu has faced criticism over his tactical style and consistency.
Yet, under his guidance, Nigeria reclaimed continental glory by winning the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco, a record-extending tenth title.
That triumph, however, hasn’t fully silenced critics who doubt his long-term capacity. Still, Madugu’s accomplishments have earned him rare recognition: he became the first Nigerian coach nominated for the Ballon d’Or Female Coach of the Year and remains in contention for CAF’s Women’s Coach of the Year, with the winner to be announced in December.
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