Peter Obi Claims NFF Officials Blocked Him from Greeting Flamingos

Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State, claimed that officials of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) prevented him from greeting the Nigeria Under-17 women’s team, known as the Flamingos, upon their return from winning the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco. Obi made this allegation in a statement titled “A New Dimension of Toxic Politics in Nigeria.” He arrived at the airport at 7 am on Monday and requested his Protocol Officer, Jackie Wayas, to inquire about greeting the players, but was informed that NFF officials had declined his request.

Obi noted that this incident was not isolated, recalling a similar experience on March 25, 2025, during a World Cup qualifier in Uyo, where he was also barred from greeting players. He described these incidents as indicative of the toxic political environment in Nigeria, which he believes has worsened since 2025, calling for unity and respect beyond political affiliations.

The NFF has not yet responded to his allegations.