Former Nigeria international Samuel Okpodu has urged the Nigeria Football Federation to learn from the country’s failure to qualify for back-to-back FIFA World Cups, insisting player welfare must become a top priority.
Okpodu believes Nigeria’s absence from the global showpiece should serve as a wake-up call for those in charge of the nation’s football.
“We must learn from what happened,” Okpodu said.
The former defender argued that meaningful reforms are needed if the Super Eagles are to return to the World Cup and compete consistently at the highest level.
According to him, one of the biggest areas requiring immediate attention is the treatment and welfare of players representing the country.
“The welfare of the players has to come first,” he added.
Okpodu stressed that disputes over match bonuses and allowances should become a thing of the past, warning that such distractions have no place in a modern football system.
He also called for better planning ahead of major competitions and qualification campaigns, insisting early preparation remains essential for success.
“We must end issues surrounding bonuses and allowances and ensure proper preparation before every competition,” he stated.
The former international maintained that Nigeria possesses enough talent to compete with the best in Africa, but warned that improved organisation and player-focused policies will be crucial if the Super Eagles are to avoid repeating the disappointment of missing another FIFA World Cup.
