By Dorcas Francis Koji
Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins has come under intense criticism after suggesting that Seyi Tinubu could be considered for a leadership role in the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) following the recent resignation of Ibrahim Gusau and members of his board.
Gusau, NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi and other members of the federation’s leadership resigned last Thursday amid mounting criticism over the state of Nigerian football and the performances of the country’s national teams.
Among the major setbacks during the period was the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the Super Falcons also missed out on qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The mass resignations have triggered a major restructuring process, with the National Sports Commission (NSC) moving to establish a football normalisation process that has received backing from FIFA.
Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, hosted by former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel, Martins called for a fresh approach to the administration of Nigerian football and suggested that younger people with an understanding of the game and the system should be given opportunities.
“I mean, it’s always been like that, you know, so we just need someone that can help. Someone, you know, a young person that understands the game, that understands the system, that can help us,” Martins said.
“And I think Seyi Tinubu can do that too,” he added.
However, Martins’ suggestion immediately sparked criticism from former Super Eagles defender Ifeanyi Udeze, who described the idea as a bad one during his programme on Brila FM.
Udeze questioned the choice of Tinubu, arguing that there are several young Nigerians with football backgrounds who could contribute to the administration of the game.
“For me, it’s a bad idea. I don’t know what made Martins make such a statement, maybe because he’s a friend to Seyi Tinubu, but as I said, I don’t buy the idea,” Udeze said.
He added that if the argument was to bring younger people into football administration, Martins could have considered former Super Eagles midfielder Seyi Olofinjana, among other candidates with established football backgrounds.
Social media users also joined the debate, with some accusing Martins of advocating political influence and nepotism in football administration.
One Facebook user, Anthony Azubuike, criticised the former striker’s position, suggesting that Martins could have personal interests behind the proposal.
Another user, Aina Ariyo, alleged that Martins was connected to a political movement reportedly associated with Seyi Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The controversy comes at a critical moment for Nigerian football, with the authorities facing pressure to reform the administration of the sport and restore confidence following a series of disappointing results involving the country’s senior national teams.
As the proposed normalisation process takes shape, the question of who should lead the NFF is expected to remain a major talking point among football stakeholders, former players and supporters.
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