Nigeria’s recent string of disappointing performances in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers has triggered a strong reaction from the country’s sports minister.
Following a 2-1 defeat to Benin in their fourth group game on Monday, which left the Super Eagles languishing in fifth place, Sports Minister John Enoh has summoned the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to deliver a comprehensive technical report.
According to a a statement issued after the defeat to Benin Republic, the minister expressed his dissatisfaction with the team’s showing, calling the results “unacceptable.”
He pointed to the “immense support from President Tinubu and the high expectations of Nigerian football fans” as factors making the underperformance even more concerning.
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He added that NFF must also “give cause why there mustn’t be consequences for the disappointment caused both government and the generality of Nigerians”.
“The recent results are unacceptable. Despite the immense support from President Tinubu and the high expectations of Nigerian football fans, the Super Eagles have underperformed,” the statement reads.
“The NFF must provide a comprehensive technical report explaining the reasons behind this poor showing and give cause why there mustn’t be consequences for the disappointment caused both the government and the generality of Nigerians.
“Our supporters are passionate and devoted. They deserve an explanation for why our national team has not been performing to the expected standards since after the last AFCON.”
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