Former captain of the Super Eagles, Austine “Jay-Jay” Okocha, has added his voice to rising concerns on the current state of football administration in Nigeria.
Okocha explained that, the current officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) have little knowledge about football and if they are not dissolved or reformed, Nigeria’s trophy drought may persist for a long time.
Jay-Jay” Okocha, widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest footballers, believes that there must be a significant changes in the management of the national football body to avoid further stagnation in Nigerian football.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria last lifted a trophy in 2013 when they defeated Burkina Faso 1-0 in the final to clinch the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in South Africa.
Their most recent near-victory came in the 2023 AFCON tournament, where they secured a silver medal after losing to Côte d’Ivoire in the final.
Austine Okocha said if Nigeria wants to win any trophy, the country must select individuals who love and understand football to lead the NFF.
“The Super Eagles may not win any trophies until the current NFF officials are dissolved or reformed. Appoint new officials who know more about football, who have interest in football, who loves football, whose lifestyles represent football.” He said.
The former Super Eagles star expressed his concern over the lack of direction and ineffective governance that has hampered the development of football in the country. He believes that proper leadership is essential to harness the immense talent Nigeria has at its disposal and guide the national team to victory in continental and global competitions.
Austine “Jay-Jay” Okocha, questioned the practice of appointing politicians to lead the Nigeria Football Federation
“You can’t appoint politicians to manage football. They will turn it to politics, and that’s what is happening today. We have the best players in the world, yet we have no trophy to lay our hands on, not because of the players, absolutely not.” He said
Source: Elvisanokyenews.com
