Nigeria’s Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, culminating in a 5-4 penalty shootout loss to DR Congo in Morocco on November 16, 2025. The team had started the campaign poorly with a 1-1 draw against Lesotho in Uyo in 2023. Analysts, former players, and sports officials have attributed the failure to mismanagement, indiscipline, and structural deficiencies in Nigerian football.

Key Issues Highlighted:

1. Indiscipline and Off-the-Pitch Problems:
   • Players went on strike during the Morocco playoffs over unpaid dues.
   • Disputes between players and officials were left unresolved until the team reached Morocco.
   • Former NFF Secretary-General Mallam Sanni Toro cited frequent changes in the technical crew and lack of strategic planning.
2. Structural Weaknesses:
   • Lack of a vibrant technical committee and proper domestic league infrastructure.
   • Poor facilities and inadequate player preparation at all levels.
   • Former players Kojo Williams and Adokiye Amiesimaka emphasized revamping school sports and domestic leagues as foundational solutions.
3. Calls for Presidential Intervention:
   • Toro urged President Bola Tinubu to personally investigate the NFF’s management and the football ecosystem.
   • Concerns about transparency in NFF sponsorship deals and the overall direction of Nigerian football were highlighted.
4. Insights from Former Stars:
   • Jay-Jay Okocha: Stressed the need for patience and proper football structures; blamed off-field issues for inconsistency.
   • Aiyegbeni Yakubu: Highlighted the long-standing tradition of owing players bonuses as a systemic problem.
   • Dr. Lary Izamoje: Criticized preparation, planning, and team cohesion, noting that Nigeria’s failure has damaged the country’s football image and economic opportunities.
5. General Consensus:
   • There are no quick fixes; success requires rebuilding the foundation of football development from grassroots to professional levels.
   • Domestic league enrichment, youth training, and accountability at the NFF are essential for future competitiveness.

Conclusion:
Experts argue that Nigeria’s football crisis is systemic, requiring urgent, hands-on intervention by President Tinubu and structural reforms to prevent further national and international embarrassment.