NFF: Why Seyi Tinubu should lead Nigerian football – Obafemi Martins

Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins has urged Nigeria's national team not to solely depend on Victor Osimhen for attacking play. The former Galatasaray player highlighted the need for competition among forwards to lessen their reliance on Osimhen. During the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Nigeria struggled to secure victories whenever Osimhen was absent due to injury, as they lost all five matches he missed.

Martins reminisced about the fierce competition he faced from Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Osaze Odemwingie, and Julius Aghahowa during his tenure with the Super Eagles. In an interview on The Obi One Podcast, the former Nigeria forward emphasized the importance of having someone capable of competing with all the players, rather than solely relying on Osimhen.

During his playing days, Martins noted that if Yakubu Aiyegbeni was starting, he would have been relegated to the bench, eagerly awaiting his opportunity. He acknowledged that there was no animosity among the players due to this system. Regarding Osimhen's attitude, Martins urged Nigerians not to misunderstand his enthusiasm for a negative demeanor.

He stressed that Osimhen's passion drives him, and his approach to the game is simply how he plays, which many people fail to appreciate. Martins concluded by expressing his belief that having Osimhen in the national team is a blessing for Nigeria. The Super Eagles striker currently boasts 35 international goals and is just two goals away from tying Rashidi Yekini's record as Nigeria's all-time leading scorer.