Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Dele Aiyenugba has urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) not to delay in securing Eric Chelle’s long-term future, insisting the Franco-Malian has already shown enough to deserve the federation’s full backing.
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Aiyenugba believes the Super Eagles are becoming a more competitive and balanced side under Chelle, praising the coach’s willingness to give opportunities to both established stars and emerging talents.
His comments come amid continued discussions over Chelle’s future after the National Sports Commission announced that terms had been agreed for an improved contract, with the coach also expected to oversee Nigeria’s Under-23 team as part of a long-term technical strategy.
Speaking on the coach’s impact, Aiyenugba said stability on the bench is essential if Nigeria hopes to build on the progress made since Chelle’s appointment.
“The team is becoming more competitive because more players are getting opportunities to prove themselves. That’s healthy for Nigerian football, and it’s important the NFF secures the coach’s future,” Aiyenugba said.
The former Bnei Yehuda goalkeeper also welcomed plans for Chelle to oversee the Olympic Eagles (Under-23 team), describing the move as a smart way to create continuity between Nigeria’s youth and senior national teams.
However, he advised the federation to appoint an experienced indigenous coach to manage the day-to-day affairs of the Under-23 side while Chelle provides overall technical direction.
“It’s a good idea for Chelle to supervise the Under-23 team, but there should be a capable local coach working under him. That will strengthen player development and ensure continuity,” he added.
Since taking charge of the Super Eagles, Chelle has been widely praised for introducing a more structured style of play and expanding the national team player pool, with several new faces earning opportunities in recent international windows.
His work also guided Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, strengthening calls for long-term stability.
While negotiations over the coach’s contract have generated conflicting reports in recent weeks, Aiyenugba believes the priority should be keeping the project on course rather than returning to the cycle of frequent managerial changes that has often disrupted the Super Eagles’ progress.
