Former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) board member and ex-Technical Committee chairman, Barrister Chris Green, has called on the NFF to steer clear of distractions following the controversy over referee appointments for Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash against Gabon.
Green, now the Rivers State Commissioner for Sports, urged the federation to prioritize preparation and performance rather than engage in debates over officiating.
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“As far as I am concerned, the NFF should not dwell too much on this matter. It is becoming a source of distraction,” Green said. “I don’t think the referees will be biased. Instead of worrying about appointments, we should focus on getting the job done on the pitch.”
He expressed confidence in the Super Eagles’ ability to overcome Gabon, stressing that Nigeria possesses the quality and depth to secure qualification despite a slow start to the campaign.
“We have what it takes to beat Gabon. Even teams like Cameroon or DR Congo shouldn’t be a problem. There’s still a lifeline and an opportunity to finish strong,” he noted.
The sports commissioner emphasized unity, discipline, and mental focus as key ingredients for success, advising the NFF and players to avoid distractions and concentrate on tactical preparation.
“Let’s focus on playing football and leave politics aside. If there’s any perceived conflict of interest, handle it professionally. Build good relations with match officials, stay disciplined, and prepare well — that’s how we win,” Green advised.
He also highlighted the impressive form of Nigerian players abroad, particularly Victor Osimhen, as a major confidence boost ahead of the tie.
“Most of our players are in top form. Osimhen is scoring consistently in Europe. There’s no reason to panic — let’s go out there with confidence and execute our plans,” he added.
Nigeria’s decisive World Cup playoff against Gabon will take place next Thursday at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
The winner will face the victor of the Cameroon vs DR Congo encounter for a place in the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March 2026.
According to FIFA’s official appointment list signed by Gordon Savic, Head of Qualifiers and International Matches, South Africa’s Abongile Tom will serve as centre referee, assisted by compatriot Zakhele Siwela as Assistant Referee 2. Akhona Makalima, also from South Africa, will head the VAR team, while Benin Republic’s Hugues Alain Djovi has been appointed Referee Assessor.
The appointments have sparked debate among fans and stakeholders, who fear potential bias due to regional football rivalries — especially after South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, declared in a recent radio interview that he would “do everything possible” to stop Nigeria from qualifying, citing past tensions over FIFA’s decision to uphold Nigeria’s protest against South Africa’s ineligible player during the group stage.
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