- Deputy Chairman Muhammed Buba Jajere urged new Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle to select only the most capable players for qualifiers
- Chelle, tasked with reviving Nigeria’s World Cup hopes, faces challenges as the Super Eagles currently sit near the bottom of their group
The Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Sports, Hon. Muhammed Buba Jajere, has called on Eric Sekou Chelle, the newly appointed coach of the Super Eagles, to field only the most capable players in the remaining 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Chelle, a former Mali national team coach, was officially unveiled yesterday in Abuja. He has been tasked with leading the three-time African champions to secure a spot in the World Cup, set to take place in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
The Super Eagles are in a precarious position, sitting second from the bottom in Group D with just three points from four matches. Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin Republic lead the group, each with seven points.
Chelle’s appointment by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) surprised many football enthusiasts due to his perceived modest coaching profile. Despite this, Hon. Jajere, representing Fika/Fune Federal Constituency of Yobe State, remains optimistic. He believes that with proper team selection and support, Chelle can achieve success.
“The task before the new coach is undeniably challenging, but success is possible if he selects the right players for the upcoming qualifiers,” Jajere stated.
He emphasized the importance of technical expertise and player commitment, urging the coach to maintain merit-based selections and ensure a fair chance for all players.
“Only serious and patriotic players should be called up,” Jajere added. “The Super Eagles are in a difficult situation, but it is still possible for them to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.”