Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has voiced his frustration at Nigeria’s uncertain path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the responsibility lies squarely with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).
Speaking passionately, the ex-Chelsea midfielder said Nigeria’s repeated failures on the biggest stage cannot be excused.
“If Nigeria doesn’t qualify for the World Cup, the entire NFF board has to go. It’s unacceptable,” Mikel declared. “We didn’t qualify for Qatar, the last World Cup, and now it looks like again we are not going to make it. Honestly, I have nothing to say about it. It is just horrible.”
Mikel was quick to defend the players, stressing that while they bear some responsibility, they should not be made the scapegoats.
“Do you blame the players? No, I don’t blame the players. Yes, the players have to take responsibility for the situation, but are you gonna blame the players alone? No,” he explained.
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner also highlighted a deeper problem that he believes undermines African football as a whole.
“Again, we talk about it so many times, and that’s why you have people disrespect the African continent and football. It’s the same issues, the same excuses, and nothing changes.”
Mikel’s comments come as pressure mounts on the Super Eagles, who face a crucial run of games to secure a place in the 2026 World Cup. With Nigeria missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar, the stakes have never been higher.
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