Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi has declared Nigeria’s qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations non-negotiable, insisting that the players are fully committed to securing the country’s ticket to the continental showpiece.

Awoniyi made the declaration while speaking with sports writers during a media parley at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where he emphasised the importance of the remaining fixtures in Nigeria’s qualification campaign.

The Coventry City forward noted that the Super Eagles, currently occupying second position in their qualifying group, have three matches left to secure their place at the tournament.

He stressed that the players understand the expectations of millions of Nigerians and are determined to deliver the desired results.

“Qualification for the 2027 AFCON is non negotiable for us. We understand what football means to Nigerians, and we know how much they expect from us. We will do everything possible to make the country proud,” Awoniyi said.

He added that the team's commitment, passion and determination remain strong, assuring Nigerians that the players would approach their remaining fixtures with the same motivation and responsibility.

“We are committed, and everybody in the team understands what is at stake. We will carry that same determination into our remaining games because qualifying for the tournament is very important to us,” he stated.

Beyond his international ambitions, the former Nottingham Forest striker also highlighted his commitment to grassroots football development through the Taiwo Awoniyi Foundation in Kwara State.

He explained that his passion for grassroots development is driven by the desire to create opportunities for young talents, particularly those from rural communities, to discover their abilities and pursue their football dreams.

“My motivation is to give young players the opportunity to discover themselves. It is not just about producing professional footballers but also creating a pathway for the next generation to achieve their dreams,” he said.

Awoniyi disclosed that his foundation recently organised a grassroots football development programme in Kwara State, bringing partners from the United Kingdom to train 44 coaches while scouting promising players across the state's 16 local government areas.

He explained that the initiative was designed to decentralise football development and ensure that talented youngsters in underserved communities receive the necessary exposure, coaching and opportunities to progress in the game.

“The idea is to make sure that football development is not concentrated in the cities alone. We want children in rural communities to have the same opportunities to showcase their talents and develop their potential,” he added.

Awoniyi further called for stronger cooperation among football administrators, government authorities, private investors and other stakeholders, stressing that a united approach remains essential to building a sustainable football development structure and creating opportunities for the next generation of Nigerian footballers.