By Ghazali Ibrahim
Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) have been overshadowed by allegations that several Super Falcons players were robbed while staying at their team hotel in Casablanca, Morocco, with cash reportedly stolen from their rooms ahead of the tournament.
The alleged theft came to light after Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo claimed on social media that money disappeared from her room while the team was away.
She alleged that members of the hotel’s housekeeping staff were responsible for the incident.
According to reports, Okoronkwo lost $700, while team captain Rasheedat Ajibade allegedly had $200 stolen.
Veteran defender Osinachi Ohale and midfielder Halimatu Ayinde reportedly lost $100 each, while Joy Omewa allegedly lost $120, bringing the total reported loss to $1,220.
In a series of Snapchat posts, Okoronkwo expressed frustration over the incident, alleging that the money went missing while the players were out of their rooms and cleaners had access to them.
She also criticised the response of hotel officials, claiming they failed to provide satisfactory explanations after the matter was reported.
The Super Falcons had been camped at the Marriott Hotel in Casablanca as part of their preparations before moving to Rabat, where they will begin their campaign in the continental championship.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had not issued an official statement at the time the allegations surfaced.
However, the team’s media officer confirmed that the matter had been reported to the relevant Moroccan authorities and that an investigation was underway.
The incident has raised concerns about the security of the team’s accommodation just days before Nigeria begin their quest for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
Despite the distraction, the Super Falcons are expected to continue their preparations for the tournament, with their opening group-stage match scheduled against Malawi.
