Former Super Eagles defender Eric Ejiofor and ex-technical committee member of the Nigeria Football Federation, Austel Elumelu, have both criticised the federation’s handling of its petition against the DR Congo national football team, urging authorities to abandon the process and focus on rebuilding Nigerian football.
Reacting to the decision by FIFA to dismiss Nigeria’s complaint over player eligibility in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification playoff, Ejiofor described the entire exercise as misguided from the outset.
“The petition was always a waste of time,” Ejiofor said, insisting that Nigeria should have secured qualification on the pitch rather than relying on administrative processes.
Despite confirmation from the NFF that an appeal has been lodged, the former defender expressed doubt over any possible reversal of the verdict.
“With the verdict now delivered, it’s time to move on,” he added.
Ejiofor stressed that Nigerian football must now redirect its attention to more pressing issues, particularly rebuilding the national team and improving future qualification campaigns.
He noted that better preparation and performances during the qualifiers would have prevented the situation.
“We should focus on other important issues now,” he said, warning that continued pursuit of the appeal would only distract from the real work needed within the system.
Echoing similar sentiments, Elumelu dismissed the idea of an appeal as futile, insisting it would not change the outcome.
“It will be an exercise in futility,” he said.
Elumelu urged the NFF to stop focusing on off-field battles and instead prioritise long-term planning, improved organisation, and stronger on-field performances.
He warned that valuable time has already been lost and called on football authorities to begin immediate preparations for future competitions.
“Nigeria should already start planning ahead,” he advised.
Both men’s remarks reflect growing frustration among stakeholders following FIFA’s ruling, with increasing calls for a reset in Nigerian football and a renewed emphasis on earning success on the pitch rather than through administrative channels.
