Austin Jay-Jay Okocha Responds to Rumours He Applied to Be NFF President
In a recent statement, Super Eagles legend Austin Jay-Jay Okocha has firmly denied rumours suggesting he intends to run for the presidency of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). As the current president, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, nears the end of his first term in office, discussions surrounding a potential overhaul of the federation have gained momentum, particularly in light of the national team’s failure to qualify for the World Cup.
NFF Under Scrutiny Amid Ongoing Issues
The NFF has faced increasing criticism from fans and stakeholders due to unresolved financial disputes, including unpaid entitlements for players. Reports indicate that the Super Falcons, who recently triumphed at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, were owed up to $10,000 in bonuses each before their successful campaign in Morocco. This has compounded frustrations within Nigerian football, notably after the Super Eagles’ disappointing 1-1 draw against South Africa, which severely hindered their World Cup aspirations and spotlighted the team’s financial grievances.
Jay-Jay Okocha, who has been floated as a potential candidate for the presidency amid calls for change, took to Instagram to address these speculations directly. “Hello everyone, I just want to use this opportunity to say that the news and posts that have been circulating are false,” he stated. Okocha emphasized that he has not engaged in discussions regarding the presidency, expressing concern over the misinformation circulating online.
Calls for Leadership Change
The dissatisfaction with the NFF’s leadership has also attracted the attention of other football legends, including former Super Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh, who advocates for a complete restructuring of the federation. Oliseh highlighted that failing to qualify for the World Cup not only reflects poorly on the team’s performance but could potentially set Nigerian football back by years.
As the country grapples with these challenges, stakeholder engagement and proactive leadership from the NFF will be crucial in rejuvenating the national teams and restoring public confidence.
In conclusion, while Okocha’s name surfaces in discussions concerning the future of the NFF, his recent statements clarify his current lack of interest in pursuing the presidency. The federation stands at a crossroads, and the decisions made in the coming months will significantly impact Nigerian football’s trajectory. Fans are encouraged to remain engaged and vocal about their aspirations for the national teams’ direction.
