Former Nigeria international Peter Nieketien has called on the Nigeria Football Federation to immediately begin preparations for the next FIFA World Cup, stressing that early planning is crucial to avoid repeating past failures.
Following Nigeria’s disappointment of missing out on another World Cup, Nieketien believes the country cannot afford to delay rebuilding efforts.
“We must start now,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of taking proactive steps.
According to him, one of the most important priorities should be identifying new players and gradually integrating them into the national team setup.
This approach, he explained, would not only inject fresh energy into the squad but also create a competitive environment that pushes players to perform at a higher level.
“We need fresh ideas and players,” he implied.
Nieketien also supported the use of international friendlies as a tool for development, noting that such matches provide valuable opportunities to test new players and build team cohesion.
However, he stressed that these friendlies must be organized consistently, rather than sporadically.
“It has to be regular,” he said.
For him, consistency in scheduling matches will allow new players to adapt more smoothly, reducing the pressure of being thrown into competitive fixtures without adequate preparation.
“It helps them settle,” he noted.
The former international warned that waiting until qualification campaigns begin before assembling a team is a flawed approach that has contributed to Nigeria’s recent struggles.
Instead, he advocates for a long-term strategy that focuses on gradual development and continuity.
As Nigeria looks ahead to the next World Cup cycle, Nieketien’s message is clear.
Preparation cannot be rushed.
It must be planned, structured, and sustained.
Because in football, success is not built in a few months.
It is built over years.
