Former Super Eagles captain Mikel John Obi has issued a bold ultimatum, demanding the dissolution of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) board if the national team fails to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking on his Obi One Podcast on September 9, 2025, the Chelsea legend expressed frustration with the NFF’s leadership, citing years of mismanagement as a threat to Nigeria’s football legacy.
The Super Eagles face a precarious path in their qualification campaign, trailing group leaders South Africa by six points with crucial matches looming. A recent victory over Rwanda offered hope with a draw with South Africa, but Mikel, a 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner, believes the stakes are too high for complacency.
“If we don’t make it to the World Cup, the entire NFF board must go,” he declared. “We need fresh ideas, accountability, and people who understand modern football to take us forward.”
Mikel’s critique points to systemic issues, including poor player welfare, logistical failures, and inconsistent coaching appointments, which he argues have eroded Nigeria’s competitiveness. The NFF has faced similar calls in the past, notably after missing the 2022 World Cup, yet structural reforms remain elusive. Fans have rallied behind Mikel’s stance, with social media abuzz with demands for transparency in how football funds are managed.
The NFF, in response, acknowledged the pressure but defended its efforts, citing investments in youth academies and international friendlies. Mikel’s outspokenness reignites the debate over governance in Nigerian football, urging stakeholders to prioritize excellence to restore the nation’s pride on the global stage.
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