Ex-internationals, fans demand sweeping reforms and leadership change after Super Eagles’ 2026 qualification failure

Pressure is mounting on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) following the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with former players, football stakeholders, and fans calling for sweeping reforms and a leadership shake-up ahead of the federation’s next electoral cycle.

Former Super Eagles defender and 1996 Olympic gold medallist, Abiodun Obafemi, said Nigeria’s repeated failure to qualify for the World Cup underscores the urgent need for change in the country’s football administration.

He argued that a nation widely regarded as one of Africa’s football powerhouses should not be missing consecutive World Cups, stressing that any reform capable of restoring the country’s football glory must be embraced.

Echoing similar concerns, former Green Eagles captain and 1980 AFCON winner, Segun Odegbami, described the back-to-back World Cup absences as a reflection of deep-rooted administrative failures rather than a lack of talent.

He said those in charge of Nigerian football must accept responsibility, adding that the country’s diminished excitement during the ongoing World Cup highlights the disappointment of missing the tournament.

The calls for accountability have also gained traction on social media, where many Nigerians have accused the NFF of poor leadership and demanded structural reforms. Some supporters warned that the expansion of the World Cup would not guarantee Nigeria’s qualification unless football management in the country improves.

Responding to the growing criticism, Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, maintained that any leadership change at the NFF must follow due democratic process rather than public pressure. While defending the current board, he argued that responsibility for Nigeria’s initial failure to qualify for the World Cup rested with the previous administration.

Olopade added that the present leadership has recorded notable achievements, including Nigeria’s performances at the Women’s World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations, insisting that reforms must be approached with balance and adherence to due process.