The last couple of weeks have been a difficult time for the African nation, with violence erupting in several parts of the country following peaceful protests against police brutality
Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr has expressed his hope that the current crises bedevilling Nigeria will be settled quickly so that the country can focus on football, a game it loves with an unalloyed passion.
Scores of people have died in Nigeria after a youth protest against a unit of the police force, SARS, notable for its impunity degenerated into widespread violence.
The government’s high-handed response has elicited various reactions, with midfielder John Ogu calling the Super Eagles to boycott Nigeria’s Afcon-qualifying games scheduled for November.
But Rohr has waved aside such extreme measures and has called for peace and unity instead.
“We have a big solidarity in the Super Eagles for our fans, so my thoughts are with Nigeria at these difficult times,” Rohr told NationSport.
“I hope everything will be settled very soon; Nigerians need to refocus now.
“Of course, we would come together soon, and I know that youths need fun that sports provide, and I hope everything would be alright once football returns.”
He added: “It’s not only Nigeria that is facing challenges because here in France, there is also a protest against beheading of teacher because of religious cartoons. I hope everyone would be protected after these unfortunate incidents.
“But the family (Super Eagles) has to be strong in order to do our job together and help each other after the protest and COVID-19 pandemic,” noted Rohr.
The German manager is expected to release a list of 25 players with which he plans to prosecute the back-to-back games against Sierra Leone in the coming days.
Nigeria currently top a group that has Benin, Lesotho, and Sierra Leone, having amassed six points in their first two games played.