Mikel Obi Says He’s Open to NFF Role — but Rejects Any Form of Corruption

John Mikel Obi says he is open to taking a leadership role at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) but insists he would never be part of any form of corruption. The former Super Eagles captain has been vocal about the issues affecting Nigerian football, especially after the recent World Cup playoff chaos where players went on strike over unpaid bonuses and Nigeria later lost to DR Congo, missing a second consecutive World Cup.

The fallout led to heavy criticism of the NFF, with Mikel among those calling for major changes. According to Brila.net, the 38-year-old said he is willing to contribute to rebuilding the system, stressing that he has always represented Nigeria with discipline and loyalty.

He explained that if he ever decides to work “from behind a desk,” he will maintain the same values he showed on the pitch. “One thing I have always done since my early days is fought for the country… I have never for once said no to my country,” Mikel said, adding that he would not associate himself with corrupt practices in any future role.