Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel says he is prepared to take up a leadership role within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), following the national team’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mikel, who has repeatedly criticised the direction of Nigerian football, said he is willing to help if the system becomes transparent and accountable.
“One thing I have always done since my early days is fought for the country,” Mikel noted. “I don’t know how many players have done that like I have, through the U17, U20, the senior national team.
“Years of sacrifice. I have never for once said no to my country.
“When I know I can give my opinion and help, I will always be ready. But again, I won’t have corruption tied to me. I am never going to do that if I am going to say yes.
“If you want us going forward, you must make sure things are done properly.
“Get the right people, people that have the same direction and thought, so when the players come back home to play, there is a good environment for them to play and perform.”
Nigeria’s failure to reach the 2026 tournament means the country will miss consecutive World Cups for the first time since 1990, after also failing to qualify for Qatar 2022.
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The downturn has stretched across the youth teams, with the Olympic Eagles, Flying Eagles and Golden Eaglets all missing major tournaments in recent years.
Mikel, one of Nigeria’s most decorated players, won two Premier League titles, four FA Cups and the 2012 Champions League during his 11 years at Chelsea.
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His international career spanned 14 years, including five AFCON appearances, two World Cups and an Olympic bronze medal.
