By Stephen Job
Former Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi, has voiced strong criticism of the alleged corruption undermining Nigerian football, declaring that it must be eradicated if the sport is to progress.
Speaking on his ObiOne Podcast in a video shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, the former Chelsea midfielder expressed dismay over reports suggesting that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) received a $1.2 million grant from FIFA for stadium projects—funds whose usage remains unclear.
“I’ve seen so many pictures, so many conversations about FIFA giving $1.2 million to the NFF to build stadiums. Have you seen that? The corruption has to be rooted out of the game,” Mikel said.
While condemning financial mismanagement in the football sector, Mikel urged stakeholders to temporarily set aside the controversy and focus on Nigeria’s crucial World Cup playoff matches.
“Now is not the best time to discuss those. This is the time for us to focus on the game at hand—playing the playoff game to get to the next round and then qualify,” he added.
The former captain emphasized the importance of player welfare, urging the NFF to ensure that the national team receives the motivation and support necessary for success.
“Whatever the NFF have to do to make those players come back, feel comfortable to perform, and give their best for the country, they have to do that right now,” he said.
Mikel, who led Nigeria to its third AFCON title in 2013, also stressed that World Cup qualification cannot depend on a single player—no matter how talented.
“Don’t depend on Victor Osimhen alone. The team, everybody, needs to perform,” he warned. “Find the motivation in you, knowing that this is the biggest game of our lives, the nation’s life. We have to qualify for the World Cup. There are not two ways about it; we have to.”
Mikel’s remarks have reignited debate over accountability in Nigerian football administration, as fans continue to demand transparency and reform within the NFF..
