Former Super Eagles midfielder Garba Lawal has openly declared his desire to coach Nigeria’s senior national team, stating he is ready to lead the side should the opportunity arise.
Lawal’s comments come at a time when current head coach Eric Chelle is under growing pressure following to deliver the 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket.
Nigeria currently sit six points behind South Africa in Group C, with only the group winner guaranteed a direct spot at the tournament.
Garba lawal. Photo Credit: X
Despite going unbeaten in his first five matches and winning the Unity Cup in London, Chelle’s position is far from secure, with September’s crucial double-header against Rwanda and South Africa looming large.
Speaking on his ambitions, Lawal said:
“I aspire to coach the Super Eagles. Every top coach in the country harbors the ambition to lead the national team, and I’m no different. With self-belief, confidence, and God’s grace, anything is possible.”
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Currently General Manager of Kada Warriors in the Nigerian National League (NNL), Lawal has remained active in Nigerian football, offering tactical input and mentoring young coaches.
“If I notice something the coach might have missed, I draw his attention to it. Don’t forget, I also have a background in the NFF’s technical department,” he added.
Garba lawal during bus playing days with the Super Eagles. Photo Credit: X
Lawal boasts an illustrious playing career that saw him feature in Europe, Asia, and Africa. He earned 57 caps for Nigeria, played at the 1998 and 2002 World Cups, and scored in three consecutive Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
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He was also part of the historic squad that won Olympic gold at Atlanta ’96.
Since retirement, Lawal transitioned into coaching, serving as a player-coach and later assistant coach at Lobi Stars before taking up administrative roles at Kaduna United.
