Mikel Obi decries corruption in Nigerian Football, urges focus on World Cup playoffs

Mikel Obi decries corruption in Nigerian Football, urges focus on World Cup playoffs

Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has condemned the deep-rooted corruption in Nigerian football, calling for urgent reforms to restore integrity and progress in the sport.

Speaking on his ObiOne Podcast shared via X on Wednesday, the former Chelsea midfielder expressed concern over reports alleging that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) received a $1.2 million FIFA grant for stadium development, questioning how the funds were utilized.

“I’ve seen so many pictures, so many conversations about FIFA giving $1.2 million to the NFF to build stadiums. Have you seen that? The corruption has to be rooted out of the game,” Mikel said.

While acknowledging the gravity of the issue, the ex-international urged Nigerians to shift focus temporarily to the country’s upcoming World Cup playoff fixtures, describing them as a crucial test for the national team.

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“Now is not the best time to discuss those. This is the time for us to focus on the game at hand — playing the playoff game to get to the next round and then qualify,” he stated.

Mikel appealed to the NFF to prioritize player welfare and motivation, stressing that creating a conducive environment is essential for success.

“Whatever the NFF has to do to make those players come back, feel comfortable, and perform at their best, they have to do that right now,” he added.

The former captain also cautioned against over-reliance on star striker Victor Osimhen, insisting that Nigeria’s qualification hopes depend on teamwork and collective determination.

“Don’t depend on Victor Osimhen alone. The team — everybody — needs to perform. Find the motivation in you, knowing that this is the biggest game of our lives, the nation’s life. We have to qualify for the World Cup. There are no two ways about it,” Mikel said.

Mikel, who led Nigeria to victory at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, remains one of the country’s most respected voices in football and has consistently advocated for transparency and professionalism within the sport’s administration.

 

Mikel Obi decries corruption in Nigerian Football, urges focus on World Cup playoffs