Nigerian football enduring ‘worst time in history’ – Odegbami

Former Nigerian football star Segun Odegbami has declared that the country is currently experiencing the "worst time" in its football history. Odegbami, who won the AFCON on home soil in 1980, pointed out that both the Super Eagles and Super Falcons have failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup in the past year. Moreover, Nigeria's youth teams and African club competitions have also witnessed disappointing performances.

This situation, according to Odegbami, signifies a "tectonic shift" for one of Africa's traditional football powers.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has undergone significant changes following intense criticism. The federation's president Ibrahim Gusau, general secretary Mohammed Sanusi, and numerous members of the executive committee resigned in the past month. Odegbami called for a restructuring of the NFF to ensure long-term development, emphasizing the need for a "blueprint" that covers all aspects of football development.

However, the reforms have sparked debate among stakeholders, with some advocating for a more comprehensive restructuring beyond leadership changes. Nigerian sports journalist Fisayo Dairo called for a proper framework and structure to enable Nigeria's football to thrive. He highlighted the necessity of developing the national teams, harnessing talent from the grassroots, and creating a governance structure that incorporates all stakeholders.

Odegbami lamented the declining infrastructure and inadequate investment in Nigerian football. He lamented the deterioration of once-world-class stadiums, such as the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, and the Liberty Stadium (now Obafemi Awolowo Stadium) in Ibadan. Odegbami expressed his grief for the neglect and damage inflicted on the nation's football facilities, which have hindered the growth and development of the sport in Nigeria.