Nigeria Football Federation condemn cyber attacks directed at Alex Iwobi

The unwarranted attacks, triggered by Nigeria's heart-wrenching defeat in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final against Ivory Coast, prompted Iwobi to take an unprecedented step - archiving all his Instagram posts, rendering his profile a blank canvas.

NFF's Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, passionately defended Iwobi, emphasizing the player's unwavering commitment to national duty throughout his illustrious career. Olajire implored fans to remember Iwobi's pivotal role, such as his memorable goal against Zambia in Uyo that secured Nigeria's spot in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

"Alex Iwobi does not deserve these attacks. We cannot suddenly forget the great moments he has made on duty for Nigeria," Olajire asserted, highlighting Iwobi's remarkable distinction as the seventh most-capped Nigerian footballer in history, with an impressive 76 caps. The director urged fans to exhibit love rather than hatred towards the midfielder.

Iwobi, following in the footsteps of his legendary uncle, Augustine "Jay-Jay" Okocha, has amassed 76 caps for Nigeria since his debut in 2015. With an international career spanning eight years, Iwobi ranks among the nation's football luminaries, trailing only behind icons such as Ahmed Musa, Vincent Enyeama, Joseph Yobo, John Mikel Obi, Nwankwo Kanu, and Mudashiru Babatunde Lawal.

The midfielder's global odyssey includes appearances in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019 (Egypt), 2021 (Cameroon), and the recently concluded tournament in Cote d'Ivoire. 

As Iwobi confronts this digital tempest, the NFF stand steadfast in their support, championing the resilience of a football maestro who has consistently donned the green-white-green with honour and pride.