Entertainer States Nigerian Football Requires Systemic Overhaul, Not Miracles

Nigerian comedian and content creator Bobby Okojie, popularly known as Edo Boy, has asserted that the nation’s football system is beyond salvation by mere chance and requires fundamental structural reform. He expressed profound pessimism regarding the national team’s prospects of qualifying for or performing well in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing deep-rooted issues within the sport’s administration .

Okojie argued that the consistent failure of the national teams stems from problems that changing coaches cannot solve. He identified the core issue as the football governing body itself, which he claims is led by individuals appointed through connections rather than competence. This, he stated, leads to poor organisation and a lack of prioritisation from the government, ultimately wasting the country’s vast natural talent .

The entertainer proposed that meaningful change would begin with a complete overhaul of the sports budget and the removal of unqualified personnel from leadership positions. He emphasised that for sports to thrive, the right people must be in the right roles, moving away from a system focused on personal gain to one aimed at achieving genuine results .

Despite his criticisms, Okojie revealed a personal commitment to contributing to sports development, expressing a desire to invest in an academy or sports project in the future. He concluded with a belief that Nigeria’s fortunes in sports will inevitably improve, though this will depend on serious and deliberate action from authorities .