Former Super Eagles midfielder Garba Lawal has welcomed the Nigeria Football Federation’s decision to extend the contract of head coach Eric Chelle, describing it as a positive step for the future of the national team.
Popularly known as ‘Chindo’, Lawal said retaining the Franco-Malian demonstrates the federation’s commitment to continuity as the Super Eagles begin preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
“It’s a good decision to retain Eric Chelle because continuity is important for the Super Eagles,” Lawal said.
The former international also endorsed the plan for Chelle to combine the Super Eagles job with the Nigeria U-23 national team, noting that Nigeria has enjoyed success with a similar arrangement in the past.
Lawal recalled that the coach who guided Nigeria to the historic men’s football gold medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games also managed the Super Eagles during that era.
“We’ve seen this model work before. It will create a smooth transition for players moving from the U-23 team to the Super Eagles,” he added.
Despite backing the initiative, Lawal expressed concern over whether the NFF has the financial capacity to sustain the improved contract and expanded technical structure.
He urged the federation to ensure adequate resources are available to support the project over the long term.
“My only concern is whether the NFF has the resources to sustain the new arrangement,” he stated.
Lawal believes that if properly funded and managed, Chelle’s dual role could strengthen Nigeria’s player development pathway and help build a more competitive Super Eagles team for the future.
