Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has confirmed that he has signed a new two-year deal with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), extending his tenure in charge of the women’s national team until October 2027.

Madugu made the announcement on Tuesday following Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The Super Falcons advanced with a 1-1 draw against the Benin Republic in Abeokuta, sealing a 3-1 aggregate victory after their 2-0 win in the first leg in Lome.

“I have been given a new contract from October 1, 2025, till October 1, 2027,” Madugu told reporters after the match.

The 61-year-old tactician expressed satisfaction with the team’s qualification but admitted that the performance was below expectations.

“The draw didn’t come as a surprise because we knew it was going to be a tough game. The Beninoise team played with determination,” Madugu said. “However, I want to apologise to Nigerians for not meeting their expectations. Each time the Super Falcons play, there are high expectations for both results and performance. Sometimes, teams have off days, and we’ll take this as one of those.”

Madugu described the encounter as a “wake-up call” ahead of preparations for next year’s WAFCON in Morocco, which will also serve as the African qualifiers for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

“We are not disappointed, but rather motivated to work harder. This game has shown us areas where we must improve,” he added.

In Tuesday’s clash, Ashleigh Plumptre netted her first international goal for Nigeria, heading home Esther Okoronkwo’s corner in the 12th minute before Benin drew level in the second half.

With qualification secured, Madugu’s focus now shifts to strengthening the squad ahead of the 2026 WAFCON, scheduled to run from March 17 to April 3, 2026.