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As Nigeria gears up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, discussions around the future leadership of the Super Eagles‘ coaching staff have intensified.
Following the disappointment of missing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, speculation is rife that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) might be considering a change at the helm, potentially replacing current head coach Eric Chelle.
However, former Nigerian international striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni urges caution against making hasty decisions regarding the coaching position. He is particularly emphatic about two specific coaches whom he believes the NFF should steer clear of in their search for new leadership.
Evaluating Eric Chelle’s Tenure and Its Impact
Eric Chelle assumed the role of head coach after Finidi George’s resignation, with a clear objective to guide Nigeria to the World Cup. His tenure has been marked by a respectable record: six victories, three draws, and a single defeat, signaling gradual improvement.
Under Chelle’s guidance, the Super Eagles secured second place in their World Cup qualifying group, narrowly missing out on qualification after a tense penalty shootout against DR Congo. This performance, while falling short of the ultimate goal, demonstrated competitive resilience and tactical growth.
Yakubu argues that this progress justifies maintaining continuity, especially with the Africa Cup of Nations imminent. He warns that a sudden coaching change could unsettle the team’s preparations and undermine their chances in the upcoming tournament.
Coaches to Avoid: Yakubu’s Firm Stance
Yakubu explicitly named Augustine Eguavoen and Samson Siasia as two coaches the NFF should avoid rehiring. He contends that Nigeria’s football development requires fresh perspectives rather than revisiting familiar faces.
Augustine Eguavoen, despite having multiple spells as the Super Eagles’ coach and achieving some positive outcomes, has not left a lasting impact strong enough to warrant another appointment, according to Yakubu.
Similarly, Samson Siasia, who is well-regarded for his success with Nigeria’s youth teams and past contributions, is viewed as less suitable for the current senior team’s demands. Yakubu emphasizes the need for innovative strategies and a coach capable of managing the modern dynamics of international football.
Progress Over Nostalgia: A Call for Forward Thinking
Yakubu clarifies that his critiques are professional rather than personal. Having been coached by Eguavoen during his playing career and sharing roots in Benin City, he respects the former coach but insists that emotional ties should not influence the NFF’s decisions.
He advocates for a forward-looking approach, urging the federation to avoid reverting to previous coaching options and instead focus on building a stable environment under Chelle’s leadership as the team prepares for AFCON.
Honoring Past Legends: Lessons from Shuaibu Amodu and Christian Chukwu
Reflecting on Nigeria’s coaching heritage, Yakubu highlights the exemplary leadership of Amodu Shuaibu and Christian Chukwu. He praises their exceptional ability to connect with players, manage team morale, and maintain composure during high-pressure tournaments.
For Yakubu, these qualities set a standard that contemporary Nigerian coaches should emulate to elevate the Super Eagles’ performance on the continental and global stages.
As Nigeria looks ahead to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the emphasis remains on strategic stability, innovative coaching, and learning from the past to forge a stronger future for the Super Eagles.
