Our reporter
As the Super Eagles of Nigeria continue to struggle in their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, legendary Cameroonian striker, Samuel Eto’o, has launched a scathing attack on the Nigerian government, accusing it of crippling football development by handing the nation’s game to politicians.
In an interview with ESSN, Eto’o said Nigeria’s decline on the international stage is not down to the players, but to what he described as a “rotting system” within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). He insisted that the administration of football in the country must be wrestled from politicians and placed in the hands of ex-professionals who understand the demands of the game.
“If at the end Nigeria didn’t qualify for the World Cup 2026, then it’s a call for reformation. To be honest with you, there is a bad system in Nigerian football, and it has been there for years,” Eto’o said. “It’s never the fault of the players. They are doing well in their clubs. The current African best player is Nigerian, the last one was Nigerian. Africa’s finest talents have come from Nigeria, but they lack proper management.”
The four-time African Footballer of the Year said the country’s reliance on politicians and bureaucrats to run football has left its once enviable football reputation in tatters, despite producing global stars.
Eto’o threw his weight behind calls for Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated football icons, to become the next president of the NFF, arguing that his experience and influence could restore credibility and direction.
“We have great ex-footballers in Nigeria, yet politicians are appointed to run football affairs. If Nigeria fails to qualify, then maybe it’s good, because it will force change,” Eto’o added.
“Since the country is on the verge of electing new NFF leadership, I urge Nigerian football fans to rally around Jay-Jay Okocha. Personally, I love Nigeria; their fans have always shown me great support. I know a country that recognises greatness when I see one, and Nigeria is number one.”
Eto’o praised Nigerians for their warmth and hospitality, urging other African nations to emulate their spirit of generosity and passion for football.
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