Nigerians Send Message to NFF: “We Want Eric Chelle to Continue as Super Eagles Coach”
Nigerians have taken to social media in large numbers to call on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to retain Eric Chelle as Super Eagles head coach.
The reactions followed a post by SportsRation’s Nsikakabasi Akpan, which triggered widespread discussion after Nigeria’s semi-final exit at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Eric Chelle has expressed his desire to continue as Super Eagles coach but said the final decision rests with the NFF.
“I love this Nigerian team. This job is very important to me and I work with full commitment. After the AFCON, I will meet with the NFF and we will decide the next step,” Chelle said.
He added, “I don’t know my future for now. I am the coach of Nigeria at this moment, but it depends on whether the NFF want me to continue. I am proud of my players, but I am disappointed because I believe we are the best team in this tournament.”
Nigeria were knocked out after losing 4–2 on penalties to hosts Morocco following a goalless draw after extra time. Attention has now shifted to the coach’s future, with many Nigerians openly backing him to stay.
Below are some of the reactions from Nigerians on social media, retained as posted:
Sunny Hayes Abba:
“Eric is a good coach and he reads the game well. Let him stay and be given a five years contract”
Olanweraju Sanni:
“He should continue as the coach”
Ibrahim Adeyanju Yusuf:
“He should be allowed to stay, he has reshaped super eagles better than he met it .”
Bessong Odun:
“ Eric Chill is d only Coach that Can deliver Super Eagle to d higher Level in football in Nigeria 4 now no body should gamble with his appointment please fellow Nigerian”
Emmaej James:
“Why on earth will NFF think of relieving Eric from his duty when the target he was given was to take the Super Eagle team to Semi finals in the Afcon which he did.”
Nsikak Ikrok:
“Eric Chelle should be replaced by hiring an angel from the gates of heaven or if not, he should go no where but be given a 4-year contract”
Itz Emma Junior:
“He always has my support”
Samuel Olapoju Oguntope:
“Let him continue with the super eagle bcos He has done well and a focus coach that love super eagle and Nigeria generally, mo centiment, l love how he conduct and his ability to deliver, God bless super eagle, God bless my country.”
Nsien Udoeyop:
“I stand with Eric Chelle”
Pius Udofa:
“Pls let the Man continue this work ooo I support for him to stay”
Michael Alexis Arteta:
“I am in support
let him stay ”
Akomaye Emmanuel:
“He should stay please”
Owoidohoabasi Okon:
“Yes he is a good coach let him stay”
Mikel Obo:
“He is indeed a good coach. He should stay”
Chukwuma Emmanuel:
“The man deserves more time to build an unbeatable team.He has really done well.”
Ben Nnachi:
“Totally agree with you brother 100%. He has given our team a good football identity. Give him time to work. The man is good. His allowances should be paid and his pay increased. Tunisia is keeping tabs on him. NFF, dont allow this man go. Keep him in the job.”
Usman Mohammed:
“Eric Chelle ’s a very good coach, even though Nigerian sack him.
He will not lack of coaching work, because he can coach Any team in Africa and across the continent “
Silas Sunday:
“Eric Chelle should stay an continue with his good work with his team.”
Further checks on social media show that Nigerians, including analysts, stakeholders and fans, are strongly united in their call for the NFF to retain the Malian coach and give him time to continue building the Super Eagles.
