Journalist Warns Against Mikel Obi’s NFF Ambition

Super Eagles legend John Obi Mikel’s openness to leading the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has triggered a wave of debate across the football community, dividing fans, journalists, and former players over whether the 38-year-old is ready for football administration at the highest level.

The discussion intensified on Wednesday after prominent Nigerian journalist and football governance analyst Osasu Obayiuwana issued a strong caution on X (formerly Twitter), arguing that Mikel still lacks the professional qualifications required to run a federation as troubled as the NFF.

‘We don’t want a Samuel Eto’o situation’ — Obayiuwana’s blunt warning

Obayiuwana drew comparisons with former Cameroon star Samuel Eto’o, whose presidency at the Cameroonian FA has been marred by controversies, governance concerns, and allegations of mismanagement. He warned that Nigeria must avoid a similar scenario.

He wrote:
“If John Obi Mikel wants to be the NFF president, he should get a proper education like Vincent Kompany, Michael Emenalo and Seyi Olofinjana, and prepare for the role. We don’t want a Samuel Eto’o situation. The NFF is already bad enough.”

Obayiuwana highlighted examples of football figures who prepared academically before transitioning into leadership roles.

– Vincent Kompany obtained an MBA from Manchester University while still at Manchester City.
– Former Chelsea technical director Michael Emenalo holds a degree in political science and international relations from Boston University.
– Ex-Super Eagles midfielder Seyi Olofinjana completed a Master’s in Sport Directorship.

According to him, these qualifications help leaders navigate the complexities of modern football governance, something he believes Mikel must prioritize before aspiring to head the federation.

Mikel responds: ‘I’ve always fought for Nigeria’

Mikel, one of Nigeria’s most decorated footballers, recently emerged as a vocal critic of the NFF following the Super Eagles’ shocking failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The campaign collapsed under the weight of administrative issues, including a players’ strike over unpaid bonuses and a decisive loss to DR Congo.

Reacting to suggestions that he is positioning himself for the NFF presidency, Mikel insisted his critiques come from loyalty, not personal ambition.

“One thing I have always done since my early days is fight for the country… I have never said no to my country,” he said.

He stressed that he is open to contributing to Nigerian football but would never take up any leadership role tainted by corruption. According to him, Nigeria must focus on “getting the right people” and building an environment where players can thrive without administrative chaos.

Although Mikel did not confirm whether he will run for NFF president, he maintained that transparency and accountability would be his non-negotiable conditions for any role he accepts within football leadership.