Obafemi Martins tips President Tinubu’s son to become NFF boss – “He understands the game”

Nigerian football appears to be at an all-time low at the moment. Although the domestic league seems to be improving following a few new deals, the national teams have been abysmal.

​The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the Super Falcons were knocked out of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in the quarter-finals for the first time in the tournament’s history.

​The Flying Eagles failed to even qualify for the Under-20 AFCON, meaning they will also miss out on the World Cup. The Under-17 side has also struggled in recent years.

​Following these consistent failures, Ibrahim Gusau resigned from his position as President of the Nigeria Football Federation last week. Although he stated it was a personal decision taken out of love for Nigerian football, many believe it may have been an order from the federal government.

​The NFF is expected to undergo major changes in the coming days, with new leadership set to take charge soon. Interestingly, Tinubu’s name has entered the fray.

​Why Obafemi Martins Believes Tinubu Can Improve Nigerian Football

​Martins is one of the finest players Nigeria has ever produced, scoring 18 goals in 42 appearances for the Super Eagles.

​He also featured for top clubs across Europe, including Inter Milan and Newcastle United. He also played in Russia, China, America, and Spain before retiring from active football in 2020 at the age of 41. He was known for his speed, trickery and clinical finishing.

​Martins has been mostly based in Nigeria since hanging up his boots, frequently seen mingling with active Nigerian footballers, entertainers, and socialites.

​Appearing as a guest on the latest episode of the ObiOne Podcast, he was asked about the NFF’s struggles and stressed that the Nigerian football ecosystem requires a complete overhaul. Remarkably, the first name he put forward was Seyi Tinubu.

​”We just need someone that can help. A young person that understands the game, and the system that can help us,” Martins said.

​”I think Seyi Tinubu can do that too. He’s young and understands what Nigerian people want. He can change that if he wants to.”

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Seyi is the most prominent son of President Tinubu, known far more for his political engagements and presence in the entertainment scene than for any involvement in Nigerian football. For that reason, Martins’ endorsement has raised plenty of eyebrows.

​Regardless, it remains critical that only individuals who possess genuine football acumen, a proven track record, and a coherent blueprint for the sport are handed the keys to the Glass House.