Green Slams NFF for “Incompetence” as Nigeria Heads to AFCON 2025

As the Super Eagles prepare for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) executive and Rivers State Sports Commissioner, Barrister Chris Green, says the country’s football is in serious decline. Nigeria opens its AFCON campaign against Tanzania on December 23, but Green insists many Nigerians remain disappointed after the national team failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, even after a playoff reprieve.

Green dismissed the significance of adding a fourth AFCON title, asking, “Who cares about the Nations Cup? We have won AFCON three times…” He blamed the NFF for what he called a total collapse in football standards. “The state of Nigerian football is not encouraging… It is in tatters,” he said, adding that administrators “are not capable” and the job “is beyond them.”

He accused the NFF leadership of lacking visibility and accountability. “We don’t even see the president most times… They cannot give account of what they have done,” he said, contrasting Nigeria’s situation with countries like Morocco, South Africa, and Egypt, which he praised for strong football development plans.

Speaking on Rivers United’s controversial CAF Champions League match against Berkane, Green said Nigeria no longer commands respect in African football. “Even in CAF, we can’t hold our own anymore,” he lamented, arguing that poor officiating persists because Nigeria lacks influential representation.

Green also criticised the collapse of youth football, saying, “U17 zero… U20 zero… Super Eagles have failed to qualify for the World Cup back-to-back.” He blamed overreliance on diaspora players and said domestic football has suffered as a result.

Calling for total restructuring, he urged a national football conference: “Let us tell ourselves the naked truth… We need something enduring.” He added that football progress requires long-term planning—10 to 30 years—not quick fixes or political appointments.

On the bonus dispute that disrupted World Cup qualifiers, Green faulted both players and officials, saying the NFF must harmonise with the National Sports Commission. He described the incident as embarrassing, noting that despite being given a “second chance,” Nigeria still missed the World Cup.