John Mikel Obi has warned that the current leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation must resign if the Super Eagles fail to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The former captain made the comments on his Obi One Podcast, criticising what he described as systemic mismanagement at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). His remarks have sparked widespread discussion across media and social platforms.
Nigeria already missed the 2022 World Cup. They now risk consecutive failures after inconsistent results in their CAF Group C qualifiers, leaving their qualification chances slim but still alive.
As of September 12, Nigeria sit third with 11 points from eight matches. South Africa lead on 17 points, with Benin second on 14. Only two games remain.
Nigeria must defeat Lesotho away and Benin at home to retain hope. Even then, progression depends on rivals slipping, making qualification a mathematical challenge.
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Mikel insisted such failure would be unacceptable for a nation long considered one of Africa’s football powerhouses. He argued that the NFF must accept responsibility for repeated underperformance.
Nigeria’s qualifying struggles
Nigeria’s campaign has been defined by setbacks. Early draws against Zimbabwe and Lesotho, followed by a loss to Benin, left the Super Eagles chasing the pack.
The expanded 2026 tournament gives Africa nine direct places and one playoff spot. However, Nigeria’s path remains precarious, especially with South Africa in commanding form.
Mikel’s words carry weight. He captained Nigeria to the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations title and represented the country at the 2014 and 2018 World Cups.
The NFF has not formally responded to his remarks, but the statement adds pressure ahead of October’s decisive fixtures.
Governance under scrutiny
Critics have long accused the NFF of financial mismanagement, poor planning, and frequent coaching changes. Player bonuses have often been delayed.
Mikel argued that leadership failures trickle down. “If we don’t qualify for the World Cup, the whole board [NFF] needs to go,” he said.
As the Super Eagles prepare for their final qualifiers, Mikel’s warning shows either to secure a World Cup spot, or face a reckoning at the top of Nigerian football.
