Segun Odegbami says NFF leadership has failed Nigeria

Former Nigeria international Segun Odegbami has issued a harsh assessment of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) leadership. He stated that those in charge of the game have failed in their duties following recent setbacks involving the country's national teams.

Odegbami argued that football administrators must be held to the same standards as players and coaches. He noted that when a team fails to reach a major objective, such as qualifying for the World Cup, the personnel in charge are typically sacked or voted out. He believes this principle of accountability should extend to the federation's leadership.

The former Super Eagles star suggested that the current NFF board should accept responsibility for recent failures and should not seek re-election. He maintained that the board should step aside rather than attempting to remain in office.

Odegbami acknowledged that his criticisms are difficult because the current administrators are friends and colleagues within the football community. He explained that while these personal relationships make the situation painful, friendship must not override the need for accountability. He noted that demanding change should not be viewed as personal hostility or an attempt to create enemies.

He warned that continuing on the current path would lead to repeated failures. According to Odegbami, the leadership must look at the results and accept the consequences of their performance. He insisted that allowing the same leadership to stay in place after failing to meet major goals risks repeating a cycle that has previously damaged Nigerian football.