Why I’m rejecting calls to work in NFF – Obi Mikel

09 Jul 2026, 05:28 by John Owen Nwachukwu · Daily Post

Former Super Eagles captain, John Obi Mikel, has stated that he has declined multiple offers from Nigerian football authorities to return home for work.

The Chelsea legend expressed his inability to collaborate with the current football administrators in Nigeria, asserting that they lack the necessary knowledge to manage the sport effectively.

Mikel criticized the long-standing officials of the Nigerian Football Federation for not prioritizing the advancement of football.

He pointed out that many administrators remain in their positions for extended periods without fostering significant progress, while funds allocated for football are mismanaged.

In a podcast hosted by Peter Crouch, Mikel remarked, “We don’t have people that know about football.

“They occupy their positions year after year, controlling everything. They are reluctant to relinquish their power and the financial benefits that come with it.

“I have received calls to return and get involved, but I have declined. Those individuals need to go. I cannot work with people who do not share the same objectives as I do.

“The goal is to improve the standard of football in Nigeria, which can be achieved quite easily. The funds must be allocated to the appropriate areas,” Mikel stated.

He emphasized that Nigerian football has the capacity for substantial improvement if resources are properly directed and administration is managed more efficiently.

Why I’m rejecting calls to work in NFF – Obi Mikel

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