National Teams
Amaju Pinnick draws backlash after claiming Nigerians wanted Super Eagles to fail
By Dayo Awoniyi
Former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president Amaju Pinnick has ignited a fresh wave of controversy after alleging that some Nigerians deliberately rooted against the Super Eagles during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Pinnick’s comments—circulated by Footy Naija and amplified online by user Ptw Doherty under the trending hashtag #SaveNigerianFootball—suggest deepening divisions within the nation’s football leadership.
According to the former NFF boss, certain stakeholders preferred seeing Nigeria fail on the pitch as a strategy to discredit and weaken the administration of current federation president, Ibrahim Gusau.
“I can tell you today, some people were praying for Nigeria not to qualify because they want Ibrahim Gusau out of the NFF. That is the truth. That is how bad it is,” Pinnick reportedly said, decrying what he described as the growing politicisation of football governance.
He urged fans, administrators, and key actors across the system to reflect on their conduct and commit to rebuilding unity and professionalism within the sport.
“We must have orientation and reorientation among Nigerians and critical stakeholders. It is very important. People are quick to call others corrupt. It is not like that. Before football, we exist, and after football, we will exist,” he added.
Pinnick’s remarks come at a volatile moment for Nigerian football, with the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup still generating widespread anger. Many fans and analysts have blamed the setback on administrative discord, leadership battles, and inconsistent performances on the field.
