Super Eagles don't handwash their own clothes, why should we? – Michelle Alozie exposes NFF's disgraceful treatment of the Super Falcons team

Super Falcons star Michelle Alozie has publicly criticised the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) for the unequal treatment of the women's national team compared to their male counterparts, the Super Eagles.

In a candid revelation on the YouTube show Togethxr, Alozie shared her experiences, highlighting the lack of basic amenities provided to the Super Falcons during training camps.

Alozie recounted her initial experience with the Super Falcons, expressing shock at being expected to hand wash her training gear.

 “I remember my first camp in Nigeria,” she said.

 “I asked them, ‘Training’s done, I have all these dirty clothes—where’s the laundry?’ And they were like, ‘Oh, do you need soap?’ What do you mean I have to hand wash it? Like why would I have to hand wash it? ” 

The 28-year-old California-born winger questioned the disparity, noting that the Super Eagles are not subjected to such conditions.

 “We’re all professional athletes. The Super Eagles are not doing handwashing, so why should we?” 

Alozie emphasised the need for equal treatment, stating, “I 100% expect equality when it comes to something like the national team, where we’re both fighting for World Cup qualification and  Olympic qualification. Like we’re all fighting for these.”

The Super Falcons have long faced challenges beyond the pitch, including inadequate support and unpaid bonuses. 

Despite these issues, they have consistently delivered strong performances.

Alozie's comments shed light on the systemic issues within Nigerian football, particularly concerning the women's team. 

Her advocacy aims to improve conditions for future generations, especially the Falconets—the national U-20 women's team. 

She added: “Being inside of it and seeing everything that everyone has to deal with—and then still being expected to perform at their best—is frustrating, but it really makes me want to fight for the Falconets that come up.”

Amidst these revelations, the Super Falcons, who's new kits have already been unveiled by Nike, are preparing for a double-header friendly against Cameroon, scheduled for May 31st at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne and June 3rd at the newly renovated MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta. 

These matches serve as crucial preparation for the delayed 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), set to commence in Morocco on July 5, 2025.

The NFF has yet to respond to Alozie's statements.

 However, her candidness has sparked a broader conversation about the treatment of female athletes in Nigeria, highlighting the need for systemic change to ensure equality and proper investment in women's football.