Former Nigeria international Sam Sodje has joined the growing chorus of criticism against the Nigeria Football Federation, calling for a complete revamp of its administrative structure.
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Speaking in reaction to the current state of Nigerian football, Sodje painted a bleak picture, insisting that the system is no longer functioning effectively.
“It’s in a terrible state,” he said.
According to the former defender, incremental changes are no longer sufficient, and what is required is a fundamental restructuring of how football is governed in the country.
“We need a total overhaul,” he stressed.
Sodje argued that Nigeria has fallen into a cycle of repeating the same mistakes, warning that expecting different results without meaningful change is unrealistic.
“We can’t keep doing the same thing,” he implied.
For him, the failure to qualify for major tournaments and the ongoing struggles within the domestic league are clear signs that the current system is not working.
“It’s obvious,” he noted.
He also emphasized that reforms must go beyond surface-level adjustments, calling for transparency, accountability, and a clear vision for the future.
“We need real change,” he added.
Sodje’s comments echo those of Segun Odegbami and other stakeholders who have recently criticized the NFF, highlighting a growing demand for reform within Nigerian football.
As pressure mounts ahead of the federation’s elections, the debate over leadership and direction is intensifying.
For Sodje, the message is simple.
Change is not optional.
It is necessary.
Because in football, progress only comes when systems evolve.
And for Nigeria, that time is now.
