Mikel Obi eyes NFF leadership on anti-corruption platform
Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has publicly declared his ambition to lead the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), setting a firm condition: a zero-tolerance stance on corruption.
The 2013 AFCON winner’s announcement follows Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the World Cup, a setback he attributes to deep-rooted structural issues. Mikel, 37, stated any role he accepts must guarantee integrity, proper management, and a performance-focused environment for players.
“I have never said no to my country,” Mikel affirmed, referencing his long service from youth levels to 91 senior caps. “But I won’t have corruption tied to me. If you want us to move forward, things must be done properly.”
His vision includes recruiting a team with a shared direction to overhaul the current system.
Following his playing career, Mikel has built administrative experience as an Honorary Sports Adviser in Plateau State, positioning him as a potential reformist figure capable of resetting Nigerian football governance.
