Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has declared a strong interest in taking up a leadership role within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), but only under a condition of absolute transparency and accountability.
Former Super Eagles captain, John Obi Mikel, has declared a strong interest in taking up a leadership role within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), but made it clear that he would only accept such responsibility in an environment free of corruption.
According to a report from Brila.net, the 37-year-old ex-international spoke after Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, emphasizing that the issues plaguing Nigerian football go far beyond results on the pitch.
Mikel Obi, known for his outspoken commitment to Nigerian football, underlined his dedication, stating:
“One thing I have always done since my early days is fought for the country. I don’t know how many players have done that like I have, through the U17, U20, the senior national team.”
He added, “Years of sacrifice. I have never for once said no to my country.”
However, the former Chelsea midfielder attached a firm condition to his involvement: “When I know I can give my opinion and help, I will always be ready. But again, I won’t have corruption tied to me. I am never going to do that if I am going to say yes.”
He stressed the need for reform, urging, “If you want us going forward, you must make sure things are done properly.”
Mikel, who won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and earned 91 international caps, already holds administrative experience, having been appointed Honorary Adviser on Sports in Plateau State in July 2023.
He concluded that the NFF must “Get the right people, people that have the same direction and thought, so when the players come back home to play, there is a good environment for them to play and perform.”