Nigeria’s Super Falcons have been subjected to racist abuse on social media ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
Several players were targeted with monkey and banana emojis, as well as primate images, widely recognised as racist symbols, following recent controversies involving the team.
The incident comes as the nine-time African champions prepare to begin their title defence, having arrived in Morocco for the tournament. The team trained in Casablanca before moving to Rabat for their Group C opener against Malawi on July 28.
The abuse followed allegations by forward Esther Okoronkwo, who claimed that about $700 was stolen from her hotel room at the Marriott Hotel in Casablanca. Other players, including Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, Halimatu Ayinde and Joy Omewa, also reportedly lost money.
After Okoronkwo shared the incident on social media, her Instagram page was flooded with abusive comments, reportedly from accounts linked to Moroccan users.
Nigerian journalist Colin Udoh later disclosed that a suspect had been arrested and had confessed, adding that the stolen funds would be returned.
The abuse extended beyond Okoronkwo, with other players also reportedly targeted online.
The incident mirrors a previous case involving forward Rinsola Babajide, who was racially abused after criticising a Confederation of African Football decision involving Morocco. She later shared screenshots of the messages.
Anti-racism groups have repeatedly identified the use of monkey and banana imagery as coded racial abuse against Black athletes.
Despite the controversy, the Super Falcons remain focused on their campaign as they aim to secure a record-extending continental title.
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