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The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, has wished Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade a successful ankle surgery and speedy recovery following an injury she sustained during Nigeria’s 5-0 victory over Comoros in the second leg of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games qualifiers.
Shaibu, who expressed concern over the injury to the Nigerian international, said he was hopeful that the NIS ambassador would overcome the setback and return to competitive football in good health and with renewed strength.
In a goodwill message issued by his special assistant on media, Ben Ogbemudia, the NIS director-general prayed for God’s protection and guidance for Ajibade throughout her treatment and rehabilitation. Blueprint reports
He also acknowledged the forward’s contributions to Nigerian football, particularly her commitment, leadership and determination in representing the country at the highest level, expressing hope that she would continue to make valuable contributions to her club and the national team after recovery.
Shaibu expresses concern, prays for successful surgery
The NIS boss said the injury sustained by the Super Falcons captain was a source of concern, especially given her importance to Nigeria’s women’s national team and her role as a leader on and off the pitch.
He wished Ajibade a successful surgical procedure and a smooth rehabilitation process, expressing confidence that she would find the strength and patience required to navigate the difficult period.
Shaibu further prayed that God would protect the player throughout her medical treatment and grant her the physical and mental resilience necessary to regain full fitness.
He encouraged the Nigerian international to remain positive and focused as she begins the process of recovery, assuring her that she enjoys the goodwill and support of Nigerians who value her contributions to the development and international standing of women’s football.
The NIS director-general also expressed hope that Ajibade would return to the pitch stronger and continue to inspire young Nigerian footballers through her dedication, discipline and performances for club and country.
Injury amidst Super Falcons’ emphatic victory over Comoros
Ajibade sustained the injury during Nigeria’s second-leg encounter against Comoros at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.
The Super Falcons entered the match with a 2-0 advantage from the first leg and produced another dominant performance, winning 5-0 to advance to the third round of the African qualifying series for the 2028 Olympic Games with a comprehensive 7-0 aggregate victory.
However, the emphatic result was overshadowed by the injury to their captain, who was forced off during the first half following a collision with a Comoros player.
The incident left Ajibade in visible pain and required medical attention on the pitch before she was carried off on a stretcher. Forward Folashade Ijamilusi was introduced as her replacement.
The injury raised concerns among the team’s supporters and technical crew, given Ajibade’s importance to the Super Falcons’ attacking play and leadership. Her absence could present a challenge for the team as it prepares for the next stage of the Olympic qualifying campaign.
Ajibade scheduled for surgery in France
Reports indicate that Ajibade is scheduled to undergo ankle surgery in Paris, France, following medical examinations to determine the extent of the injury.
Reports citing Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) head of communications, Ademola Olajire, indicated that an MRI scan revealed a fracture in her right ankle, prompting plans for surgical intervention. The full duration of her recovery has not been officially confirmed.
The player provided an update to reassure supporters that she was doing well while acknowledging that further medical consultations were ongoing.
She expressed appreciation to her teammates, family, technical and medical staff, as well as fans who had reached out with messages of encouragement and prayers.
Ajibade also reiterated her determination to recover and return to action, with her immediate priority being to regain full fitness before resuming her club and international commitments.
The injury is a setback for the Super Falcons, considering the captain’s experience and influence within the squad. However, the priority remains ensuring that she receives appropriate medical care and completes her rehabilitation before returning to competitive football.
Super Falcons advance to face Morocco
Despite the setback, Nigeria’s performance against Comoros demonstrated the team’s attacking depth and ability to maintain its momentum during a crucial qualifying fixture.
Toni Payne and Uchenna Kanu scored two goals each, while Christy Ucheibe converted a penalty to complete the 5-0 victory.
Payne opened the scoring in the 41st minute after Kanu capitalised on a defensive error by the Comoros goalkeeper and squared the ball for her teammate to finish from close range.
Kanu extended Nigeria’s advantage in the 58th minute, heading home a cross from Ijamilusi. Payne added her second goal five minutes later, before Kanu scored again in the 66th minute. Ucheibe subsequently converted a penalty in the 71st minute to complete the rout.
The victory followed Nigeria’s 2-0 win in the first leg and secured a 7-0 aggregate success, sending the Super Falcons into the third round of the African qualifying series, where they are scheduled to face Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses.
The upcoming tie will represent a more demanding test for the Nigerian side as it pursues qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The Super Falcons will be hoping to maintain their winning momentum despite the absence of their captain during her recovery.
Shaibu reaffirms support for Nigerian athletes
Shaibu’s message underscores the importance of supporting Nigerian athletes through periods of injury and uncertainty, particularly those who carry the responsibility of representing the country in major international competitions.
As an ambassador of the National Institute for Sports, Ajibade represents a prominent figure in Nigerian football whose performances and leadership have helped raise the profile of the women’s game.
The NIS director-general’s message also reflects the value of encouragement and institutional support in helping athletes maintain their confidence while undergoing treatment and rehabilitation.
For Ajibade, the immediate task is to complete her medical treatment and embark on a recovery programme that will enable her to return to competitive football safely.
Shaibu expressed confidence that the Super Falcons captain would overcome the challenge and resume making valuable contributions to Nigerian football, while wishing her a successful surgery and a speedy recovery.
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