Chelle Revives Super Eagles’ Glory; Gusau’s NFF Leadership Steady – Akwuegbu

Former Nigeria international Benedict Akwuegbu has exclusively told Completesports.com that Super Eagles head coach Eric Sékou Chelle is steadily restoring the national team’s reputation as a formidable force in African and world football, while also praising the leadership of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Musa Gusau for creating the stability needed to drive progress.

Akwuegbu spoke to Completesports.com from his base in the United Kingdom against the backdrop of Chelle’s impressive record since taking charge of the Super Eagles.

Chelle Rekindling Super Eagles’ Winning Identity

Chelle has overseen the Super Eagles through 25 matches across competitions (excluding CHAN Eagles games), suffering just two defeats — a 2-1 loss to Egypt in an international friendly in Cairo in December 2025 and a 2-1 defeat to Portugal in Leiria on Wednesday night.

“That’s a fantastic record,” Akwuegbu began.

“Just two defeats in 25 games is not a bad result at all. It shows the coach is worth his salt and is rekindling the Super Eagles’ past glory.

There is no doubt he is rebuilding the team, starting with the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, and I believe he is heading in the right direction, given the fact that he is giving young and new players, including NPFL stars, opportunities in the senior national team.

Also Read: Why We’re Inviting More Young Players To Super Eagles —Chelle

“This gives hope that the Super Eagles are gradually returning to their glory days — when the team struck fear into opponents before matches, when the fear factor weighed heavily on rivals regardless of their strength.”

NFF Backing Helping Chelle Succeed

Similarly, Akwuegbu, who is the President and sole financier of Ben Akwuegbu FC, Jos, commended the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation for appointing Eric Sékou Chelle and providing him with a conducive environment to work.

According to the former striker, the support structure around the French-Malian coach is helping him bring out the best in the team.

Continuity Key To Sustaining Progress

Akwuegbu also called for continuity in the administration of football in the country, even as the NFF Elective Congress is scheduled to hold in September in Lafia, Nasarawa State.

He praised Gusau’s leadership since taking office in 2022, describing his tenure as one focused on restoring stability and rebuilding confidence in Nigerian football administration.

Akwuegbu said the current NFF leadership has prioritised peace among stakeholders, strengthened grassroots football structures, and created a more stable environment for the domestic game.

Also Read: Udeze: Don’t Blame Chelle For Eagles’ Failure To Qualify For 2026 World Cup

According to him, these efforts, though still unfolding, are already contributing to visible improvements within the country’s football ecosystem.

“Gusau is a man of peace who understands that football cannot thrive without harmony among stakeholders,” Akwuegbu said.

“He has shown strong commitment to grassroots development. While some of his achievements may not be fully appreciated at this stage, their long-term impact will become clearer in the years ahead. His passion, sincerity and dedication to Nigerian football are evident.”

Building A Stronger Future For Nigerian Football

He also pointed to gradual improvements in Nigeria’s domestic leagues under Gusau’s leadership, arguing that continued stability in the federation would help consolidate ongoing reforms and deepen football development across the country.

Akwuegbu added that leadership continuity would be essential in sustaining progress and ensuring that reforms within Nigerian football are fully implemented.