Following Nigeria’s exclusion from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, former midfielder John Ogu has blamed both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Super Eagles, the country’s national football team.
Nigeria’s aspirations were dashed in November 2025 when the Super Eagles fell 4-3 on penalties to DR Congo after a 1-1 draw in the African play-offs, according to Naija News.
In an interview with Brila FM, Ogu claimed that the campaign was derailed by both a lack of player dedication and serious institutional problems inside the federation.
“In my opinion, the people in charge of our football aren’t football-oriented; they don’t understand things about football,” he stated.
For example, Samuel Eto’o, the FA President of Cameroon, is knowledgeable about football. They won’t welcome you as a football player if you believe that you are serving your country; André Onana experienced this.
“I think those in charge of our football team ought to perform better. The players may also be held accountable by NFF.
“NFF is more of a framework. You know why I won’t even place all the responsibility on the NFF? It’s a dream come true to represent Nigeria.
“They try their hardest, even though it might not be enough.”
