Amaju Pinnick has declared that Nigeria will win the next Africa Cup of Nations. The former NFF president also believes the Super Eagles will qualify for the 2030 World Cup and make a strong impact.
Pinnick spoke during an interview on ARISE News. He acknowledged the pain of missing back-to-back World Cups.
“It really gets into me,” Pinnick said. “It is one of my saddest moments that we didn’t qualify when I was president. When we didn’t qualify again, it’s a lot in terms of commercial benefits and otherwise.”
‘The next Nations Cup is ours’
Pinnick did not hide his ambition for the 2027 AFCON. He boldly claimed the trophy. “The next Nations Cup is ours, by God’s grace,” he said.
Nigeria have been drawn in Group L for the qualifiers. They face Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau and co‑hosts Tanzania. Only one additional team will qualify from the group because Tanzania’s place is already guaranteed.
The qualifiers begin in September 2026. The stakes could not be higher for Nigeria’s football giants.
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Eyes on 2030 World Cup
Beyond Africa, Pinnick has his sights set on the global stage. He predicted a strong Nigerian return at the 2030 World Cup.
“I want to believe we are not just going to qualify for the next World Cup. That I can say. We are going to make a very prominent presence,” he said.
The 2030 edition will be hosted by Morocco, Spain and Portugal. Nigeria missed the 2022 and 2026 tournaments. Consecutive absences have cost the nation commercial benefits, international exposure and national pride.
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Building for the Future
Pinnick also pointed to emerging talent. He singled out a young forward who recently moved to Brighton.
“Watch out for Yohanna,” Pinnick said. “I personally did a review on him. He’s the future. The NFF is monitoring him.”
He backed the current NFF leadership and coach Eric Chelle. The former NFF chief believes Nigeria now possesses young, enterprising players and a solid foundation.
“The bedrock of any football federation is the male national team. I believe we are getting it right. We have a coach, we have a team, and we have young enterprising players.”
The long road back
Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The Super Eagles lost to DR Congo on penalties in the African playoff final.
The disappointment still lingers. But Pinnick insists the direction is now positive.
“Missing back-to-back World Cups is one of my biggest regrets,” he admitted. “But the NFF is working hard to correct the situation. We are hungry to qualify and make a statement.”
The former NFF president remains committed to Nigerian football. He now serves as Special Adviser to CAF President Patrice Motsepe.
Nigeria must return to Africa’s summit first. Then the world stage awaits.
