John Ogu, a former midfielder for Nigeria, has blamed both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Nigeria national football team (the Super Eagles) for missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria’s hopes ended in November 2025 when the Super Eagles lost 4-3 on penalties to DR Congo after a 1-1 tie in the African play-offs.
Ogu told Brila FM that the campaign was derailed by serious problems within the federation and a lack of commitment from the players.
He said, “The people in charge of our football don’t care about football and don’t know much about it.”
Samuel Eto’o is the FA President in Cameroon, for example. He knows a lot about football. If you think you’re doing your country a favor by playing football, they won’t invite you. This happened to André Onana.
“I think the people in charge of our football need to do a better job.” The players can also be blamed by NFF.
“NFF is more about the structure. I won’t even blame the NFF completely, and you know why? It’s a dream come true to represent Nigeria.
“They do their best, but it might not be enough.”
