Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad has cautioned former Super Eagles player Mikel Obi for calling for the sacking of the entire board of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).

MyNigeria reported that Obi called for the sacking of the board if the Super Eagles fail to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

His statement has been described as divisive by Ahmad, who said such is not what Nigeria needs at this moment.

He wrote on X, "I was genuinely surprised when I saw the news of former Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi, calling out management of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and even suggesting that they should be dissolved if Nigeria fails to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. We all can I understand his frustrations, but I strongly believe this is not the right time for such remarks.

"At this crucial stage, the Super Eagles need all the encouragement they can get, not divisive statements from veterans of the game. Words carry weight, especially when they come from players who had the privilege of representing Nigeria at the tournament. Instead of boosting morale, such utterances can demoralise the players, weaken the resolve of the management and shake the confidence of fans praying for a turnaround.

"When Mikel Obi was playing, he enjoyed the full support of the NFF and millions of Nigerians; the least he can do is to reciprocate that loyalty by standing behind the team and encouraging them. We still have two crucial games in hand, so this should not be the time to start blame games."

ASA