Former Super Eagles captain, Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha, has dismissed reports linking him to a bid for the presidency of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Speculation about his interest in the position intensified after renewed calls for the Ibrahim Gusau-led NFF board to step down, following Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with South Africa in Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
In a statement, the 1994 AFCON winner described the reports as false and urged those behind them to desist.
“Hello everyone, I just want to say that the news and posts circulating are false,” Okocha clarified.
“I have not spoken to anyone about Nigerian football or any interest in becoming NFF president.
“I’m currently in Kigali attending SPORTSBIZAFRICA. I’m pleading with those spreading false information to stop.
“I understand the frustration we are all experiencing, but let’s keep believing in better days ahead. God bless, and please let’s stay strong.”
Nigeria’s qualification hopes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup remain in jeopardy after the Super Eagles failed to secure maximum points against South Africa.
With just two matches left, the team sits on 11 points—six adrift of Group C leaders Bafana Bafana.
The Super Eagles will resume their campaign in October with decisive fixtures against Lesotho and Benin Republic.
