The Nigeria Football Federation have found themselves in chaos following the Super Eagles' poor run during the qualifying campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Former Super Eagles captain Austin Okocha has shut down rumours linking him with a bid for the presidency of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Soccernet.ng reports.
Reports swirled this week suggesting the former Nigeria international was considering stepping into football politics, with some fans openly calling for ex-internationals to rescue the struggling federation.
But Okocha made it clear he has no such plans.
“Hello everyone, I just want to use this opportunity to say that the news and post that have been circulating is false. I have not said or spoken to anyone about Nigerian football or any interest in becoming NFF president,” he wrote in an Instagram post on Wednesday.
“I’m currently in Kigali attending SPORTSBIZAFRICA, so I’m pleading with the people spreading false information to stop.”
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The former PSG and Bolton Wanderers playmaker stepped in to set the record straight at a time when Nigerian football is in crisis.
The Super Eagles are on the brink of missing a second consecutive World Cup after a 1-1 draw with South Africa left them six points adrift of the group leaders, with just two qualifiers remaining.
Okocha acknowledged the frustration of supporters but urged them to remain patient.
“I appreciate my people and understand the frustration we’re going through, but be rest assured that better days are ahead. Let’s keep believing. I know it’s not easy, but we are all in it together. God bless, and please let’s stay strong,” he added.
Nigeria’s fate will now hinge on must-win fixtures against Benin and Lesotho in October. Anything less, and the Super Eagles’ road to the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada will be over.
Okocha, who retired from international football in 2006 after 73 caps and 14 goals, remains one of the most revered figures in African football. Known for his flair and creativity, he represented Nigeria at three World Cups and lifted the Africa Cup of Nations in 1994. His words still carry weight, but for now, he insists his influence will remain off the pitch.
