Legendary Super Eagles captain, Austin Jay-Jay Okocha, has dismissed rumours linking him with an ambition to contest for the presidency of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Following Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with South Africa in Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, calls mounted for the Ibrahim Gusau-led NFF board to resign. Reports then surfaced that Okocha was eyeing the top football administrative seat.
The 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner, however, debunked the speculation in a statement, urging those behind it to desist.
“Hello everyone, I just want to use this opportunity to say that the news and post that have been circulating is false,” Okocha said. “I have not said or spoken to anyone about Nigerian football or any interest in becoming NFF president. I’m currently in Kigali attending SPORTSBIZAFRICA.”
He added:
“I appreciate my people and understand the frustration we’re going through, but be rest assured that better days are ahead. Let’s keep believing. I know it is not easy, but we are all in it together. God bless and please let’s stay strong.”
The Super Eagles’ latest result leaves them in danger of missing a second consecutive World Cup. Nigeria currently sit third in Group C with 11 points, six behind leaders South Africa, with only two matches left to play against Lesotho and Benin Republic in October.