Akor Adams has called for a decisive reset in Nigerian football, urging stakeholders to shift from regret to responsibility following the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Sevilla striker insisted that the conversation must move beyond disappointment to urgent action, warning that another missed World Cup—this time in 2030—would have serious implications for the country’s football identity.

Speaking via LaLiga, Adams stressed that rebuilding cannot be postponed, describing preparation as a continuous process that must begin immediately, both on and off the pitch.

“We are motivated to make sure we don’t disappoint ourselves and Nigerians again,” Adams said. “Another miss would take a very big toll on Nigerian football. The preparation starts now—it starts every day leading up to 2030.”

Nigeria’s absence from the next World Cup marks a second consecutive failure to reach football’s biggest stage, a sharp contrast to the nation’s proud history since its debut at the 1994 FIFA World Cup. Adams believes that legacy now places a clear obligation on the current generation to respond with urgency and accountability.

The 24-year-old also emphasised that responsibility extends beyond the players to administrators and decision-makers, noting that meaningful progress will depend on alignment between the technical crew, the squad, and the Nigeria Football Federation.

Despite the setback, Adams sees a pathway forward. He believes the Super Eagles can begin their rebuild at the upcoming Unity Cup in London, where they will face Jamaica, India and Zimbabwe—a platform he views as an opportunity to restore confidence and set a new direction for the team.