Mikel Obi Blasts NFF as Nigeria’s AFCON Preparations Plunge into Chaos

Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has issued a blistering critique of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), saying the country’s football administration is failing the nation at a crucial moment ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Speaking on his ObiOne podcast, Mikel said he was deeply disappointed with how Nigeria’s AFCON preparations have been handled, labelling ongoing administrative problems as unacceptable and “shameless.”

The Chelsea legend highlighted reports that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has gone unpaid for months, calling it unprofessional for a national team to enter a major tournament with such unresolved issues.

“You can’t go into AFCON with these problems hanging over us. Everything must be sorted now,” Mikel said, adding that such oversights damage players, team morale, and the pride of Nigerian fans.

Mikel also criticised the NFF’s broader leadership, pointing out that the squad’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup should be a wake‑up call for reform. He said Nigeria — as one of Africa’s traditional football powers — deserves better organisation and planning.

Meanwhile, the National Sports Commission said it has been covering Chelle’s salary on behalf of the NFF, despite not being party to his contract — a move intended to support the team amid ongoing administrative shortcomings.

Nigeria, placed in Group C alongside Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania, will open its AFCON 2025 campaign against Tanzania on December 23 in Fès, Morocco.