The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed dissatisfaction with the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) decision to appoint Éric Sékou Chelle, former head coach of Mali's national team, as the new Super Eagles coach.
In a statement signed by Abdul-Yekinn Odunayo, Clerk of the Senate, NANS National Headquarters, the student body described the appointment as a misstep, pointing to Chelle’s limited coaching accomplishments.
Chelle, whose tenure as Mali’s coach began in 2022, failed to secure a World Cup qualification or clinch the African Cup of Nations. NANS argued that his track record does not justify his selection, especially when more qualified Nigerian or European coaches are available.
The student body urged the NFF to prioritize developing and assigning local coaches to national roles instead of selecting "underqualified" foreign candidates.
“The Malian National Team’s poor performance at the 2024 African Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire under Chelle’s leadership raises serious questions,” the statement noted.
NANS emphasized the importance of appointing a tactically adept coach who can harness Nigeria’s abundant football talent and restore the nation’s standing in African and global football. They also cast doubt on Chelle’s ability to lead the team to success in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.
The group concluded by urging the NFF to reconsider the appointment and opt for a coach who aligns with the high standards expected of Nigerian football.
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