- John Mikel Obi, former captain of the Super Eagles, calls for the removal of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) board.
- The demand is contingent on the national team’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- Obi emphasizes accountability within the NFF regarding the team’s performance.
Former Super Eagles skipper, John Mikel Obi, has urged that the entire Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) board be removed if the national team fails to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Struggling Qualification Campaign
Nigeria’s hopes of making it to the tournament hang in the balance after a 1–1 draw against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana left them third in Group C, six points behind the leaders with only two fixtures remaining.
“Unacceptable” Situation
Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, the former Chelsea midfielder expressed deep disappointment over the national team’s downward trajectory.
“If Nigeria doesn’t qualify for the World Cup, then the whole NFF board must be sacked. It’s simply unacceptable,” Mikel insisted.
The 2013 AFCON champion reminded fans that the Super Eagles already missed out on Qatar 2022, stressing that another failure would be disastrous.
“We failed to qualify for Qatar, and now it seems history may repeat itself. Honestly, it’s horrible,” he added.
Where the Blame Lies
While acknowledging that players also bear some responsibility, Mikel maintained that the real problem stems from the federation.
“Yes, the players have a part to play, but the bigger issue comes from the top,” he said.
Slim Hopes Remain
With 11 points from eight games, Nigeria must win their last two matches away to Lesotho and at home against Benin Republic and also hope other group results go in their favour. Only then can they sneak into the playoffs as one of Africa’s four best runners-up.
According to Mikel, poor leadership at the NFF has tarnished the country’s football image globally.
“We’ve said it countless times, but nothing changes. This is why African football lacks respect. Accountability has to begin at the top,” he emphasized.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be staged in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with Africa allocated nine qualification slots.
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