Only Seyi Tinubu Can Change NFF, Says Obafemi Martins

Former Super Eagles striker, Obafemi Martins, has said Seyi Tinubu has the capacity to change the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and address the challenges confronting Nigerian football.

His comments come amid renewed concerns over the administration of Nigerian football following the resignation of NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and members of the federation’s executive committee.

The resignations came after a series of setbacks involving Nigeria’s national teams, including the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Super Falcons’ failure to reach the 2027 Women’s World Cup.

The developments have intensified calls for a fundamental overhaul of football administration in the country, with stakeholders seeking a leadership capable of restoring confidence and improving the fortunes of the national teams.

The NFF’s next elective congress is scheduled to hold on September 27 in Lafia, where attention is expected to focus on the federation’s leadership and the direction of Nigerian football.

However, speaking on the Obi One Podcast, where he discussed the crisis in the administration of Nigerian football and growing calls for reforms within the NFF, the former Inter Milan said Seyi Tinubu can solve the problem in Nigerian football.

The Newcastle United forward stated that Nigerian football needs young people who understand the game and the system and are capable of driving meaningful change.

He specifically identified Seyi Tinubu as someone who could help bring about such change, citing his understanding of the aspirations of young Nigerians.

“We just need someone that can help a young person that understands the game, the system that can help us and I think Seyi Tinubu can do that too,” Martins said.

The former Super Eagles forward further expressed confidence in Seyi Tinubu’s ability to influence change if he decided to become more involved in efforts to reform Nigerian football.

“He is young and he understands what Nigeria People want and I think he can change that, if he wants to he can change that,” he added.

Martins acknowledged that Seyi Tinubu does not occupy the office of the President but said he believed the President’s son was already making efforts in his own capacity.

“I mean he is not the President but still he is making an effort,” Martins stated.