Segun Odegbami, a former international footballer, is advocating for the Nigeria Football Federation to appoint a local coach to lead the Super Eagles. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, Odegbami emphasized the need for a capable Nigerian hand to guide the national team.
Following the departure of Portuguese manager Jose Peseiro, who led the Super Eagles to a commendable second-place finish at the 2023 African Cup of Nations, Odegbami expressed his belief that it is time for Nigeria to break free from a colonial mindset that only foreign coaches can bring success.
Odegbami highlighted the abundance of qualified Nigerians who have the potential to elevate the team to greater heights. He firmly stated his stance against relying on foreign coaches and urged Peseiro to gracefully step aside from his coaching role with the national team.
Regarding Peseiro’s tenure, Odegbami criticized his performance as average and clarified that the coach’s contract simply expired and was not renewed. He urged Peseiro to exit gracefully and allow Nigeria to move forward with a coach who can deliver tangible results.
In conclusion, Odegbami emphasized the importance of appointing a Nigerian coach who can lead the Super Eagles to victory, expressing the nation’s weariness with coaches who fail to secure significant achievements. It is time for Nigeria to embrace its own talent and strive for success under indigenous leadership.
By advocating for a local coach to take the reins of the Super Eagles, Segun Odegbami is championing a new era of Nigerian football that prioritizes homegrown talent and expertise. It is a call to action for the Nigeria Football Federation to look within and empower its own to lead the national team to glory.
