ormer Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has called for a total overhaul of the Nigeria Football Federation if the country fails to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, the former Chelsea star warned that missing the World Cup for a second straight time would be a disaster for Nigerian football and fans.
“I really feel for Nigerians,” Mikel said. “Missing the World Cup again? That would be devastating. And if it happens, something must change. The NFF board cannot remain.”
Nigeria currently sits third in their qualifying group after a 1-1 draw with South Africa, trailing leaders South Africa and Benin Republic. With 11 points from 8 matches, Nigeria is six points behind group leaders South Africa, who have 17 points. Only the group winner earns direct qualification to the World Cup, while the runner-up may enter a playoff.
Mikel said the issues go beyond player performance and lie in poor leadership at the top of Nigerian football. “The players can take some blame, but the biggest problem is the system,” he said. “Those running our football don’t know how to bring the best out of top professionals.”
He also criticised the environment around the national team, saying players aren’t given the support they need to succeed when they return home.
“These guys come from top clubs in Europe to chaos. There’s no motivation, no comfort. You can’t expect them to give their best under those conditions,” he added.
Calling Nigeria the biggest football nation in Africa, Mikel insisted missing out on the World Cup again would be unacceptable.
“If we don’t qualify, the entire NFF board should resign. Full stop. We need leadership that understands modern football,” he said.
Mikel also stressed the importance of involving former players and football legends in the decision-making process to help guide the current generation of players.
“We have so many former Super Eagles who understand the game at the highest level. Their experience should be tapped into to inspire and mentor the team. Ignoring this wealth of knowledge is a big mistake,” he noted.
He further called on government authorities to take a more active role in ensuring Nigerian football is run professionally and transparently.
“If the football federation can’t fix things internally, then the government must intervene to protect the interests of our football and our fans. We can’t afford to keep going in circles,” Mikel said.
Despite his disappointment, the former midfielder remains hopeful and urged Nigerians to keep faith in the team during the remaining qualifiers.
“The fight isn’t over. The players need our support now more than ever. Let’s stand behind them as they try to turn things around,” he concluded.
Quick Facts: Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup Qualifying Campaign
- Group Position: 3rd place in Group C
- Points: 11 from 8 matches
- Group Leader: South Africa (17 points)
- Key Rivals: Benin Republic (14 points), Rwanda (11 points)
- Matches Remaining: 2 (away to Lesotho, home vs Benin)
- Qualification: Group winner qualifies directly; runner-up may enter playoff
- Recent Results:
• 2-0 win vs Rwanda (away)
• 1-1 draw vs Zimbabwe (home)
• 1-1 draw vs South Africa (away)