Famend Nigerian sports activities journalist and a number of award-winning author, Ajibade Olusesan has strongly criticised the management of Nigerian soccer and former NFF President Amaju Pinnick for the failure of the Tremendous Eagles to qualify for the FIFA 2026 World Cup.
He significantly blamed former president Pinnick for what he describes because the “systematic destruction” of the nation’s soccer construction.
He added that the present administration underneath Ibrahim Gusau has continued on the identical trajectory and “should go” if Nigerian soccer is to get better.
Ajibade traces the foundation of the decline to September 30, 2014, when Pinnick assumed workplace as President of the Nigeria Soccer Federation (NFF).
In keeping with him, the administration inherited a thriving soccer ecosystem constructed on aggressive depth, efficient youth buildings, and strategic planning.
On the time, Nigeria had simply received the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup, and already had a well-laid plan for the victorious 2015 U-17 squad.
Nonetheless, Ajibade argues that the progress halted abruptly.
“Underneath Pinnick, the Tremendous Eagles did not qualify for the 2015 and 2017 AFCON tournaments, an consequence unthinkable for a group that had not too long ago dominated African soccer.” Ajibade begins.
“The once-reliable youth soccer pipeline additionally collapsed, with the Golden Eaglets and Flying Eagles shedding their aggressive edge. ”
“Since successful the U-17 World Cup in 2015, Nigeria has managed to qualify for the match solely as soon as,* he famous.
Ajibade additionally criticised the rising dependence on foreign-born gamers, suggesting that many lack deep understanding of Nigeria’s soccer tradition and will not have thought of Nigeria if that they had higher prospects with their international locations of beginning.
He insists: ” Gusau’s administration is merely an extension of the locust years underneath Pinnick,” I’m calling for a complete overhaul of soccer management to allow real reform.”.
The veteran journalist didn’t spare his colleagues both within the pen pushing enterprise.
He famous that sports activities journalism has additionally contributed to the decay, accusing some journalists of failing to carry soccer directors accountable.
“Monetary inducements and private pursuits has influenced many reporters, leading to muted criticism and compromised requirements.*
Ajibade recalled the uproar following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2006 World Cup, when journalists spoke boldly and held the authorities accountable. He urged journalists to return to that ethos of integrity and braveness.
He concluded by calling for a renewed dedication to professionalism, transparency, and accountability in each soccer administration and sports activities reporting, emphasising that solely such an method can restore Nigerian soccer to its rightful place.
