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Okocha: Nigeria Football Needs Fresh Ideas, New Structures to Gain Value

Duro Ikhazuagbe Former Super Eagles Captain, Austin Jay Jay Okocha, has joined the conversation on the new direction for Nigeria football, stressing that the country needs people with fresh ideas

Former Super Eagles Captain Austin Jay Jay Okocha has called for fresh ideas and new structures to revitalize Nigeria football. Speaking on a Brila FM sports programme, Okocha stressed that the impending Normalisation Committee, coupled with the current structure of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), will hinder progress. He pointed out that past attempts to restructure the NFF have resulted in recommendations gathering dust on shelves rather than being implemented.

Okocha emphasized the importance of people with fresh ideas and a unified approach to drive the necessary change in the country's football administration. He lamented his experience with the Delta Football Association (DFA) where he found the challenges too overwhelming and ultimately stepped down. However, Okocha acknowledged that those unaware of the hurdles faced by football administration in Nigeria may not forgive those who choose to remain silent.

He highlighted the dire consequences of Nigeria not qualifying for back-to-back World Cups and the Super Falcons missing the Women’s World Cup in Brazil next year. Okocha concluded that improving football in the country is not an arduous task, but rather a matter of implementing effective solutions and bringing in individuals who can add value.

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