Former Super Eagles defender Isaac Okoronkwo has urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to formally address a recent controversial comment made by striker Victor Boniface, who joked about retiring from international football.
Boniface’s remarks, made during a light-hearted social media exchange, sparked backlash from fans and football analysts who saw the comment as disrespectful to the national team.
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Though the Bayer Leverkusen forward has since clarified that it was just a joke and issued an apology, Okoronkwo believes the matter should not be taken lightly.
“The NFF must speak up. This is not something to ignore,” said Okoronkwo, who was part of the Super Eagles squad at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
“There’s a need to guide and educate players on the responsibilities that come with wearing the green and white. Jokes like that send the wrong message, especially to younger players.”
The incident has rekindled discussions about player attitudes toward national team duties, especially among Europe-based professionals. While some fans were quick to defend Boniface, others argue that his comments reflect a deeper disconnect between players and the national football structure.
Okoronkwo stressed the importance of accountability and professionalism. “Yes, he’s apologized, and that’s good, but we must use this as a teaching moment. Representing Nigeria is a huge honor, and it should be treated as such, always,” he added.
The former defender also called on the NFF to enhance player engagement and communication, to prevent similar incidents in the future. “A strong relationship between the federation and players will help avoid these things.
Players need to feel valued, but they also need to understand their role as ambassadors,” he concluded.
Boniface, 23, is considered one of Nigeria’s rising stars and played a key role in Leverkusen’s Bundesliga-winning season. His future with the Super Eagles appears unaffected, for now.
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