The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Canadian women's club AFC Toronto have strongly condemned the racist abuse suffered by Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo on social media following a theft incident during Nigeria's stay in Morocco for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Okoronkwo came under attack online after it emerged that cash belonging to her had been stolen by a worker at the Super Falcons' hotel.
Moroccan security authorities later tracked down and arrested the suspect, recovered the stolen money, ordered that it be returned to the Nigerian international and secured a six-month jail term for the offender.
However, despite the swift resolution of the case, the striker became the target of racist slurs and monkey emojis on social media, prompting reactions from the NFF and her club.
In a statement shared on its official X account on Monday, the NFF described the online attacks as reprehensible and reiterated that racism and discrimination have no place in sport.
"The Nigeria Football Federation strongly condemns the unacceptable racist abuse directed at Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo on social media following recent incidents at the team's hotel in Morocco," the federation said.
The football body noted that the facts surrounding the incident had been established, with the culprit arrested, the stolen money recovered and returned, and a prison sentence handed down.
It said the abuse directed at the player was completely unjustified and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare, dignity and mental well-being of members of the national team.
The federation added that the Super Falcons remained united and fully focused on their campaign at the 2026 WAFCON despite the distraction.
AFC Toronto also rallied behind its player, insisting that football must remain free from racism and all forms of discrimination.
"There is no place for racism in our game. Today and every day we stand for respect and inclusion," the club stated.
The Canadian side said Okoronkwo had endured racist abuse while representing Nigeria and stressed that every footballer deserves to compete in an atmosphere of safety, respect and equality.
"We are proud to stand with Esther and all athletes who face racism and discrimination, both on and off the pitch," the club said.
Echoing a message from the Nigerian forward, AFC Toronto added: "Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that."
The club reaffirmed its resolve to continue promoting inclusion and opposing racism in football at every level.
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