Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to extend the contract of head coach Eric Chelle once his current deal expires.
Chelle, a Franco-Malian tactician, was appointed in January 2025 following Nigeria’s disappointing run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Despite missing out on qualification after a penalty shootout loss to DR Congo, Osimhen believes Chelle deserves continuity, citing his achievements with the team.
Under Chelle’s guidance, Nigeria secured six wins and two draws in the qualifiers, finishing second behind South Africa. He later led the Super Eagles to a bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after defeating Egypt in the third-place match.
Although the NFF had mandated Chelle to reach the AFCON final, Osimhen praised his impact, insisting that the coach has restored confidence and competitiveness to the squad.
Chelle, formerly coach of Mali and MC Oran, has been credited with stabilising the team and introducing tactical discipline. His future now depends on whether the NFF will heed Osimhen’s call and extend his contract beyond its current term.
This development adds to ongoing debates about Nigeria’s coaching direction, with many fans and analysts weighing Chelle’s progress against the federation’s long-term ambitions.
By Adeolu Johnson, Abuja
