Segun Odegbami Declares Crisis in Nigerian Football

Segun Odegbami, a former Nigeria international who contributed to Nigeria's first Africa Cup of Nations title in 1980, declared that Nigeria is facing the "worst time" in its football history. This statement comes as the Super Eagles prepare to start their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with a match against Madagascar scheduled for September 25 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

Odegbami highlighted the failures of both the Super Eagles and the Super Falcons, who did not qualify for their respective FIFA World Cups. He noted that the Super Falcons, previous African champions, failed to secure victory in the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, which they could have won.

Additionally, he pointed out the struggles of Nigeria's age-grade teams and local clubs. The situation has led to significant changes within the Nigeria Football Federation, with president Ibrahim Gusau, general secretary Mohammed Sanusi, and several executive committee members resigning in August.

A joint FIFA and CAF delegation is collaborating with the National Sports Commission on a reform roadmap, while NFF elections set for September 27 have been suspended.