The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, has urged the swift appointment of a head coach for the Super Eagles as the critical 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers loom on the horizon. With the resumption of the qualifiers set for March 2025, Eguavoen emphasized the need for prompt action, stating that time is of the essence in assembling and preparing the team for the challenges ahead. Speaking to Kennis FM, he expressed his belief that early appointment would allow the new coach sufficient time to acclimate, strategize, and engage with the technical crew to ensure a cohesive approach toward achieving qualification.

Eguavoen also reiterated his preference for an indigenous coach to take the reins of the national team, highlighting the advantages of having a local head coach who understands the unique dynamics of Nigerian football and the sentiments of the fans. He suggested that the technical crew be expanded to accommodate a more robust support system for the team. According to him, a home-grown coach is better positioned to connect with the players and develop a strategy that resonates with the nation’s footballing culture and aspirations. “We should stay at home for the choice of head coach,” Eguavoen asserted, emphasizing the importance of leveraging local expertise.

The NFF, however, has not yet delivered on its promise to appoint a foreign coach, a commitment made in June. Meanwhile, Eguavoen had temporarily managed the team, successfully guiding them to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Despite acknowledging the challenges ahead, Eguavoen remains optimistic about Nigeria’s chances of making it to the 2026 World Cup. “Nothing is impossible,” he said, while stressing the urgency of acting decisively. His call for unity and collaboration reflects his determination to see the Super Eagles regain their status as a formidable force on the global football stage.