ABUJA: The Voice of Nigeria VON has publicly apologized for erroneously publishing a report on Saturday, July 26, 2025, which falsely announced Nigeria’s loss in the WAFCON 2025 Final against Morocco before the match concluded.
The national broadcaster confirmed that the Super Falcons ultimately secured a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory, clinching their record-extending tenth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations WAFCON title.
In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the organization, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, VoN, expressed gratitude for the public’s concern and feedback following the “inaccurate and deeply unfortunate” publication.
He acknowledged the historic moment of Nigeria’s triumph, which the false report contradicted.
While initial reviews pointed to an internal lapse, VON is also investigating the possibility of a “security breach or identity theft through hacking” that may have contributed to the incident.
Ndace stated that as a public institution, cyber threats cannot be ruled out, and appropriate steps are being taken to enhance the security of VON’s digital platforms.
Ndace clarified that while internal editorial processes are being reviewed and strengthened, the organization is not placing “sole responsibility on any individual staff member, including the sports reporter initially associated with the story.”
He emphasized that the incident highlights the need for comprehensive institutional safeguards to prevent future occurrences.
As part of ongoing internal reforms, VON has introduced key editorial structures, including an Investigative Desk, a Fact-Checking Unit, and a Monitoring and Evaluation Team.
The organization has also undertaken strategic staff redeployments to enhance accountability, build resilience, and boost editorial efficiency across its platforms.
“These reforms reflect our broader commitment to repositioning VON as a more responsive, transparent, and globally respected media institution,” Ndace stated.
He reiterated VON’s dedication to its three pillars: People, Platform, and Partnership, affirming its responsibility as Nigeria’s official international broadcaster.
Ndace concluded by thanking the public for their engagement, underscoring that accountability is a cornerstone of public service.
