The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Executive Committee has officially appointed Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team. The decision, which was endorsed at the NFF’s meeting on January 2, 2025, follows the recommendation of the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee.
The 47-year-old French national, who previously coached the Mali national team, is no stranger to African football. At the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, Chelle’s Mali squad came agonizingly close to reaching the semi-finals, narrowly losing 2-1 to the hosts, Côte d’Ivoire, after extra time. Mali had led the match until the final minute of regulation time, showcasing Chelle’s tactical acumen and ability to guide his team through intense challenges.
His appointment is effective immediately, and his first major task will be guiding the Super Eagles through the critical 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The next round of qualification matches, set for March 2025, will be crucial in securing a place for Nigeria in the tournament.
In addition to his World Cup duties, Chelle will begin his work with the home-based Super Eagles at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, taking place from February 1-28, 2024. Nigeria will compete with 17 other nations in this prestigious tournament, aiming to build a strong foundation for the future of Nigerian football.
This appointment comes after the resignation of Finidi George, following a series of disappointing results in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Austine Eguavoen was temporarily put in charge, but Chelle is now set to take the reins of the national team, with the full support of the NFF.
NFF President Gusau expressed confidence in Chelle’s ability to lead the Super Eagles to success, noting that the coach’s vast experience in African football will be key to overcoming the challenges ahead. The NFF is optimistic that under Chelle’s leadership, Nigeria will continue to grow and compete at the highest leve.
