By

Ezindu Okay-Lawrence

The Guild of Sports Editors' call for the resignation of the NFF board and coach Finidi George reeks of hysteria and a lack of understanding of the complexities of football administration. Their knee-jerk reaction to the Super Eagles' poor performance in the 2026 World Cup qualifying series is misguided and unhelpful.

Firstly, the guild's criticism of the NFF's "wrong and belated decisions" is vague and lacks substance. What specific decisions are they referring to? The appointment of Finidi George as coach was widely praised, and the team's performance in the qualifying series has been affected by various factors, including injuries and player unavailability.

Secondly, the guild's suggestion that some players are no longer relevant to the team and should be replaced is simplistic and fails to consider the nuances of team dynamics and player development. Player selection is a complex process that involves more than just "commitment and willingness."

Thirdly, the guild's call for an overhaul of the technical department and increased corporate support is a hollow slogan that lacks concrete proposals. How exactly would they suggest the NFF improve its technical department, and what corporate support are they advocating for?

Lastly, the guild's failure to acknowledge the efforts of the NFF and the team's potential for growth and improvement is disappointing. Sani Toro's optimistic view that the Super Eagles can still qualify for the World Cup with necessary changes is a more balanced perspective that the guild should consider.

In conclusion, the Guild of Sports Editors' call for resignation is a knee-jerk reaction that fails to address the root causes of the Super Eagles' poor performance. Nigerian football needs constructive engagement, not sensationalism and empty criticism. The guild should focus on providing solutions rather than mere pontification.

My (and few sane others) candid patriotic opinion.

Fingers crossed 🤞