Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, has insisted that he has not given up on Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the Super Eagles’ precarious position in their group.
Speaking after the team’s latest fixtures, Dikko acknowledged that Nigeria is at a disadvantage in the standings and faces an uphill task, but maintained that the dream of qualification is still alive.
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Dikko admitted that the campaign so far has been disappointing, with missed opportunities leaving Nigeria trailing their rivals in the group.
However, he argued that there remains a mathematical possibility of reaching the mundial if the Super Eagles approach their remaining games with the right attitude.
“We know the situation is not in our favor, but I am still keeping the faith,” he said. “We must do our part by winning the last two fixtures and then hope that other results go our way. In football, anything can happen.”
The sports administrator urged the players and technical crew to treat the final games as must-win encounters, stressing that belief and discipline can make the difference.
He also called on fans to continue supporting the team through the difficult period, noting that pressure and negativity would only make the challenge harder.
“The players need encouragement, not criticism,” Dikko stated. “At a time like this, unity is important. We must all rally behind the Super Eagles.”
Looking beyond the current qualifiers, Dikko emphasized the need for structural improvements in Nigerian football, from youth development to long-term planning.
He noted that consistency, investment, and better organization will ensure that Nigeria avoids finding itself in similar situations in the future. “Whether we qualify or not, we must take lessons from this campaign,” he added.
“The World Cup is every country’s dream, and Nigeria has the talent to get there regularly. What we need is focus and commitment.”
