The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed the appointment of former Mali coach Éric Sékou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the NFF announced the decision to hire the 47-year-old Malian tactician:
“The Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation has endorsed the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee for the appointment of Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle as Head Coach of Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team, the Super Eagles,” the statement reads.
“At its meeting held in Abuja on Thursday, January 2, 2025, the NFF Technical and Development Sub-Committee recommended the appointment of the former coach of Mali’s senior men’s national team as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles.
Chelle’s appointment comes with a strong endorsement from the federation’s leadership, citing his recent success with Mali during the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast. Under his guidance, Mali reached the quarter-finals, losing narrowly in extra time to the host nation.
The Malian coach faces an immediate challenge, as the Super Eagles prepare for crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. Nigeria, currently winless after four matches, sits fifth in Group C and urgently needs victories to revive their campaign.
Chelle’s track record and tactical acumen will be tested as he takes on the task of reinvigorating Nigeria’s football fortunes on the global stage.
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