Former Super Eagles midfielder Sunday Oliseh has revealed that his resignation as the senior national team coach was due to insufficient support from the Nigeria Football Federation NFF. Oliseh, who managed the Super Eagles from July 2015 to February 2016, cited the NFF’s failure to honour the terms of his contract as the primary reason for his departure.
In an interview with Elegbete TV, Oliseh disclosed that he and his assistants were unpaid for several months, and he received no support during his illness. Despite these challenges, he led the team in 14 matches, securing four wins and only two losses.
Oliseh highlighted his frustrations After being unpaid for four months, my assistants being unpaid for six months, after me falling sick and not getting any support, spending thousands of dollars to cure myself, and still being laughed at by some of your media friends for falling sick. I resigned because I didn’t get support.
At the time of his resignation, Nigeria was still in contention to qualify for the 2017 Nations Cup, needing to defeat Egypt to secure their place.
Editorial
Sunday Oliseh’s resignation as the Super Eagles coach underscores significant issues within the management and support structures of Nigerian football. His departure, primarily due to the lack of financial and institutional backing from the NFF, raises critical questions about the administration’s commitment to the national team’s success.
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Oliseh’s tenure, albeit short, was marked by dedication and resilience. Leading the team through 14 matches with a decent record, he demonstrated his capability and passion for Nigerian football. However, the lack of timely payments and support, especially during his illness, reflects poorly on the NFF’s management practices.
The financial neglect not only affects the morale and performance of the coaching staff but also sets a negative precedent for future appointments. It is essential for the NFF to address these administrative lapses to build a more supportive and efficient environment for the coaching team and players.
Furthermore, Oliseh’s public disclosure of these issues should serve as a wake up call for the NFF to reevaluate its operational protocols. Ensuring timely payments, providing adequate medical support, and fostering a respectful and professional working environment are fundamental steps toward restoring trust and integrity in Nigerian football management.
As fans and stakeholders, it is crucial to hold the NFF accountable and advocate for reforms that prioritize the well-being and support of the coaching staff and players. Only through such measures can Nigerian football achieve sustainable success and maintain its competitive edge on the global stage.
Did You Know?
- Sunday Oliseh was a pivotal member of Nigeria’s 1994 World Cup squad, contributing to the team’s historic run to the Round of 16.
- Oliseh has played for several top European clubs, including Ajax, Borussia Dortmund, and Juventus.
- He is known for his stunning goal against Spain in the 1998 World Cup, which helped Nigeria secure a 3-2 victory.
- Before coaching the Super Eagles, Oliseh worked as a technical director and consultant in Belgium.
- Oliseh holds a UEFA Pro License, one of the highest coaching certifications in football.
