By
Arinze Izik

Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins is facing strong criticism after naming Seyi Tinubu as a possible candidate to take charge of the Nigeria Football Federation, following the sudden resignation of the NFF board.

PUNCH Sports Extra reports that NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi and other board members stepped down last Thursday. The resignations came amid growing public pressure over poor results from Nigeria’s national teams.

The low points cited include the Super Eagles missing out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Super Falcons failing to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

With the board out, the National Sports Commission is now pushing a normalization process, which FIFA has endorsed, to oversee a transition in Nigerian football leadership.

Martins’ Suggestion on Podcast
Speaking on The Obi One Podcast hosted by ex-Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel, Martins argued that Nigerian football needs new leadership with a modern outlook.

“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. And I think Seyi Tinubu can do that too,” Martins said.

Udeze and Fans Push Back
Ex-international Ifeanyi Udeze disagreed strongly during a segment on Brila FM.

“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 stated.
“If Martins claims we need young people to come and run our football, there are other young people. I was thinking he would mention a young person like Seyi Olofinjana. I was surprised by his choice, so for me, Obafemi Martins is on his own.”

The comment also sparked debate online. Several social media users accused Martins of backing political interference in football.
Facebook user Anthony Azubuike wrote: “The guy (Martins) goofed, big time. He might be eyeing one appointment or contract, but his plan is void ab initio.”
Another user, Aina Ariyo, alleged that Martins is linked to a political movement reportedly associated with Seyi Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.

With the NFF now in transition, attention is shifting to who will emerge to lead Nigerian football out of its current crisis.