Eric Chelle, the newly appointed head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, is preparing for his official unveiling in Abuja as he steps into the role with high expectations.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed Chelle’s appointment earlier this week, marking the beginning of a new era for the national team. The 47-year-old French-Malian tactician replaces Augustine Eguavoen, who served as caretaker coach during the final stretch of 2024, successfully securing Nigeria’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Chelle’s task is now twofold: leading the Super Eagles to a strong AFCON campaign and ensuring their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Before accepting the Nigeria job, Chelle coached Algeria’s MC Oran, a top-flight club, and previously led Mali to the quarterfinals of the 2024 AFCON. He also has experience managing several lower-league clubs in France, building a modest but promising coaching resume.

After parting ways with MC Oran this week by mutual consent, Chelle is set to travel to Paris today, January 8, to finalize his arrangements before heading to Nigeria on Sunday for his unveiling.

Journalist Ojora Babatunde confirmed Chelle’s itinerary, saying, “Eric Chelle will leave Oran, Algeria, for Paris, France, today, before departing for Nigeria for his official unveiling by the Nigeria Football Federation.”

Chelle’s arrival in Nigeria will be accompanied by three of his trusted assistants from his stints with Mali and MC Oran. While the NFF has not disclosed specific contract details, sources suggest the coach will sign a two-year deal covering the remaining 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 AFCON.

The Super Eagles’ next challenges will come in March, with World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. Chelle’s appointment is expected to reinvigorate the squad as they prepare for the road ahead.