Former Nigerian international Hilary Adiki has congratulated Senegal on their recent continental success, praising the team’s mentality, resilience, and overall organisation, while calling on Nigeria to urgently refocus on grassroots football development.
Adiki described Senegal’s victory as well deserved, noting that the champions displayed strong character and confidence throughout the tournament. According to him, their ability to remain composed under pressure ultimately made the difference on the biggest stage.
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“Congratulations to Senegal. They showed great mentality and confidence, and that was enough to see them through in the end,” Adiki said. “They really did well, and this victory paves the way for them as a football nation.”
The former international also highlighted the difficult conditions Senegal faced during the competition, including what he described as stress and poor hospitality. Despite these challenges, Adiki believes the team’s unity and belief carried them to success.
“With all the stress and lack of hospitality towards the Senegalese side, they still triumphed. It is the work of God,” he added.
Turning his attention to Nigeria, Adiki stressed that the Super Eagles and Super Falcons can reach the summit of African football if the right structures are put in place. He pointed to Senegal and Morocco as clear examples of nations that have benefited from sustained investment in grassroots football.
“Nigeria can get to the top in Africa if we invest properly in grassroots football, the way Senegal and Morocco have done,” he said. “Talent alone is not enough; there must be a clear development pathway.”
Adiki also called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to address recurring administrative and structural issues that continue to hinder progress, referencing past disappointments and unrest around national teams.
“The NFF needs to reshape those usual disappointments. Football administration must improve if Nigeria truly wants to compete consistently at the highest level in Africa,” he concluded.
