Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has launched a fierce critique of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), calling the body’s preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) unacceptable and demanding better for the nation’s football. His comments come amid reports that Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle is owed three months’ salary on the eve of the tournament.
Speaking on his ObiOne Podcast, Mikel expressed profound disappointment, stating the chaotic build-up undermines the team even before their first match. “I’m not impressed at all with the preparation… How do you owe a coach money at this stage? It’s shameless!” he said. “This is not how serious football nations operate.”
Mikel, who has previously called for the resignation of the NFF board following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, framed the issue as part of a damaging cycle. He argued that public disputes over finances demoralize the entire football ecosystem.
“When issues like this are in the public space, it affects everyone – the coach, the players and even the fans,” Mikel stated. “This was supposed to be the time to save face and show that lessons were learned. Instead, it’s the same story again… Nigeria deserves better. Our football deserves better.”
The Super Eagles will begin their AFCON 2025 campaign in Group C, facing Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Their opening match against Tanzania is scheduled for December 23 in Fès, Morocco.
The team’s final pre-tournament friendly resulted in a 2-1 loss to Egypt in Cairo, adding to the sense of unsettled preparations.
With administrative issues spilling into public view and results on the pitch yet to inspire confidence, the NFF faces mounting pressure to resolve internal crises as the national team enters the continental spotlight.
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