Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has ignited a firestorm, with former Super Eagles captain and coach Sunday Oliseh leading the charge for sweeping reforms.

Oliseh, never one to hold back his opinions, declared that the Ibrahim Gusau-led Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) board must resign, citing repeated leadership failures and poor planning. “We are too big a footballing nation to gamble with World Cup tickets,” he said. “If we cannot qualify for two consecutive tournaments, change at the top is not just necessary—it is compulsory.”

The Super Eagles’ qualifying campaign was one to forget, managing only three wins and two draws in eight games, tallying just 11 points. With South Africa on 17 points and Benin on 14, Nigeria’s faint hopes of sneaking through the playoffs are virtually gone, leaving fans furious and disillusioned.

Oliseh stressed that missing the World Cup isn’t merely a blow to national pride; it’s a huge economic setback. “The tournament showcases Nigerian talent, attracts scouts, boosts player value, and provides financial rewards essential for grassroots development,” he explained.

As supporters flood social media with demands for accountability, Oliseh’s call for an overhaul underscores a pivotal moment for Nigerian football—a crossroads where decisive action could determine whether the Super Eagles rise again or drift deeper into crisis.