Nigeria Football Deserves Better, Mikel Slams NFF Ahead of AFCON

Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has criticised the Nigeria Football Federation over what he described as poor preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, expressing concern about unresolved administrative issues ahead of the tournament.

Mikel spoke on his ObiOne podcast, where he faulted the build-up to the competition scheduled to begin on Sunday in Morocco. He questioned how such issues could persist at a critical time for the national team, particularly reports that the Super Eagles coach is owed salaries.

According to Mikel, the situation reflects a lack of seriousness in the administration of football in the country, noting that such matters affect not only the coach but also the players and fans.

He said Nigeria should have used the period after the disappointing World Cup qualification campaign to correct past mistakes and restore confidence, rather than repeat the same problems.

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, is reported to be owed three months’ salary and bonuses by the NFF ahead of the tournament.

However, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, disclosed that the commission has been paying Chelle’s salary on behalf of the NFF, despite not being a party to the coach’s contract. He said the arrangement was part of the commission’s support for the football federation.

Nigeria will compete in Group C at the 2025 AFCON alongside Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania. The Super Eagles are scheduled to begin their campaign against Tanzania on December 23 in Fès.

In preparation for the tournament, Nigeria lost 2–1 to Egypt in their only pre-AFCON friendly match played in Cairo on Tuesday.