President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has reaffirmed his full support for Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, insisting that the federation remains committed to the managerial project despite the painful failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
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Gusau emphasized that Chelle was appointed on a two-year contract, and the federation intends to honour the agreement while giving the coach the stability needed to build a competitive and united team.
“Chelle signed a two-year deal. Missing the World Cup was disappointing, but it does not change the fact that he still has our backing,” Gusau stated.
He noted that the AFCON presents an opportunity for redemption and growth, urging Nigerians to judge the team’s future on their performances in Morocco, not past setbacks.
“We must look forward. AFCON is here, and this team has a chance to make the country proud. We believe Chelle can lead the team properly,” he added.
Gusau acknowledged the anger among fans following the World Cup failure but insisted that the solution is not instability or constant coaching changes, a problem that has plagued Nigerian football for years.
“Nigeria has suffered from too many technical shake-ups. We cannot keep changing coaches at every setback. There must be continuity and trust,” he warned.
He also highlighted that Chelle has shown professionalism, tactical growth, and leadership qualities since taking charge, even amid criticism and intense national scrutiny.
“The coach has shown commitment to the job. He is building a structure, and we must allow him to finish what he started,” Gusau said.
The NFF president urged fans and stakeholders to give the team the support they need ahead of the tournament kicking off on 21 December 2025.
“This is the time for unity. Let us all back the team and the coach so they can focus and deliver results,” he concluded.
