Nigerian students, under NANS, oppose Eric Chelle’s appointment as Super Eagles coach, citing it as a disservice to local talent. During a protest in Abeokuta, they demanded a more tactical coach and threatened nationwide demonstrations if their demands for Chelle’s replacement are not met by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has rejected the appointment of Eric Sekou Chelle as head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, demanding an immediate reversal by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The students expressed their concerns during a protest at the Moshood Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
NANS Clerk, Abdul-Yekinn Odunayo, speaking on behalf of the association, labeled the decision a disservice to Nigerian football and a disregard for local coaching talent. Odunayo criticized the NFF’s choice, stating, “This appointment is unacceptable and undermines the wealth of coaching expertise within Nigeria.”
The association has threatened a nationwide protest, emphasizing the need for a more tactical coach capable of fully utilizing the country’s abundant football talent. They argued that Chelle’s appointment fails to align with the aspirations of Nigerian sports enthusiasts.
Chelle, a former coach of Mali, was dismissed from his role in June 2024 and now faces the task of leading the Super Eagles to the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals. Despite his international experience, NANS insists on prioritizing homegrown talent for the role.
NANS vowed to mobilize students across the country if their demands are not met, calling for a reassessment of the NFF’s approach to managing the national team.
