Former Nigerian international Garba Lawal has warned that the ongoing crisis in the Nigeria Football Federation must not distract the country from the crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers scheduled to begin later this month.
Lawal acknowledged the importance of resolving the issues surrounding the administration of Nigerian football but insisted that the national team’s immediate competitive responsibilities must remain a priority.
He called on the authorities to maintain focus on the Super Eagles while efforts continue to address the crisis in the football house.
“We should not lose sight of what is in front of us,” Lawal stressed, warning that Nigeria cannot afford to allow the administrative situation to undermine preparations for the AFCON qualifiers.
The former Super Eagles winger also called for early preparations, insisting that the level of competition has continued to rise as other African nations improve their approach to the game.
According to Lawal, Nigeria must ensure that the Super Eagles have adequate time to prepare and build cohesion before their qualifying matches.
He believes proper planning and preparation will be particularly important as teams across the continent continue to develop and become more competitive.
Lawal’s comments come at a delicate period for Nigerian football following the resignation of the Ibrahim Musa Gusau-led NFF administration and the subsequent engagement between Nigerian authorities and FIFA over a comprehensive reform roadmap.
While the reforms are expected to address the structural and governance problems affecting the game, Lawal believes the process should not come at the expense of the national team’s immediate objectives.
The Super Eagles will be expected to switch their attention to the AFCON qualifiers later this month, with qualification for the continental tournament remaining a major target.
For Lawal, solving the football crisis and preparing the national team must happen simultaneously.
“The authorities must not lose sight of what is in front,” the former international warned, urging Nigeria to maintain its focus on both reform and success on the pitch.
