Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has urged that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) be completely disbanded if Nigeria fails to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria’s qualification hopes are hanging in the balance after a 1–1 draw with South Africa in Uyo left the Eagles third in Group C, six points adrift of leaders Bafana Bafana with just two matches left to play.
Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, the 2013 AFCON winner criticised the NFF’s leadership, holding them responsible for the team’s repeated failings on the global stage.
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“If Nigeria doesn’t qualify for the 2026 World Cup, the entire NFF board has to go… It’s unacceptable. We didn’t qualify for Qatar, and now it looks like we may not make it again,” Mikel said.
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He added that NFF’s inability to “put its house in order” has directly contributed to Nigeria’s struggles, warning that repeated failure only fuels global disrespect for African football.
Nigeria’s qualifying campaign continues next month with a trip to Lesotho, before hosting Benin Republic in Uyo. The Super Eagles must win both matches and hope other results go their way to keep alive their chances of securing a play-off spot.
