President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has refuted claims suggesting that Super Eagles Manager, Eric Chelle, will part ways with the national team after the 2026 FIFA World Cup African play-offs scheduled to hold next month in Morocco.
Addressing growing rumours over Chelle’s tenure, Gusau clarified that the Franco-Malian coach remains a key part of Nigeria’s long-term football development strategy beyond the World Cup qualifiers.
“He has a two-year contract with us, so nobody should think he is only here to assist for the World Cup,” Gusau stated. “His deal covers the World Cup qualifying matches as well as the AFCON.”
The Super Eagles secured a place in the CAF play-off round after finishing as one of the best runners-up in their qualifying group and are now set to face Gabon in November for a spot in the inter-continental play-offs.
Gusau assured Nigerians that Chelle retains the full confidence of the federation as he continues to lead the national team through the crucial phase of qualification.
“We have crossed the first hurdle, and now we move into the play-offs in November. After that, we go for the Nations Cup and see how things progress,” he added.
He also praised Chelle’s performance since taking charge, noting that the coach has silenced early critics through discipline, tactical awareness, and consistent results.
“A lot of Nigerians doubted why we appointed him, but thank God he has shown his capability to manage the national team,” Gusau said. “Our responsibility now is to give him all the support he needs to perform his duties and deliver the results the country expects.”
Under Chelle’s guidance, the Super Eagles recovered from a shaky start to finish their qualification campaign strongly, posting decisive wins that secured their progression. The NFF leadership believes that maintaining stability and continuity at this stage is vital to the team’s long-term success.
The national team is expected to open camp in early November before travelling to Morocco for the highly anticipated showdown with Gabon. Should they advance, the Super Eagles could face Cameroon or DR Congo in the final round of the play-offs.
Gusau called on fans to rally behind the squad, emphasising unity and national pride as the team seeks to return to the World Cup after missing the Qatar 2022 edition.
“We are working closely with government authorities to ensure that the team has the best possible support structure,” the NFF President affirmed. “The focus now is to qualify and show that Nigeria belongs among the best footballing nations.”
