National Sports Commission Director-General Bukola Olopade has revealed that the commission has been working closely with the Nigeria Football Federation to ensure the Super Eagles are adequately prepared for their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Nigeria begin their campaign against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, with Olopade expressing confidence that Eric Chelle’s men can collect the maximum six points available from their opening two matches.
According to the NSC boss, preparations for the qualifiers have involved regular communication with NFF Acting General Secretary Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme, as both bodies attempt to provide the team with the necessary support.
“We have been working hand in hand with the Nigeria Football Federation,” Olopade said, adding that communication with Ikpeme has been regular ahead of the crucial opening fixture.
The NFF has independently confirmed the NSC’s involvement, stating on Thursday that, with the commission’s support, arrangements had been completed for the Madagascar match as well as the Super Eagles’ movement to Guinea-Bissau for Tuesday’s second qualifier.
Ikpeme also outlined the same six-point ambition.
“The NFF has absolute confidence in the team to run another good race and win the ticket with matches to spare,” he said. “The only way we can do that is to start with the maximum three points tomorrow, and then with another three points in Bissau on Tuesday.”
The cooperation comes during a transitional period in Nigerian football administration. Ikpeme was placed in charge of the NFF secretariat following the August resignations of Ibrahim Gusau, Mohammed Sanusi and members of the Executive Committee.
On the pitch, however, the immediate objective is Madagascar.
Chelle has similarly stressed the importance of accumulating points early rather than leaving qualification to a late scramble.
For Olopade, the administrative groundwork has been laid. The task now passes to the Super Eagles to turn that preparation into six points on the pitch.
