The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) have both dismissed media reports claiming that former Super Eagles handler Augustine Eguavoen is set to replace Eric Chelle as head coach of the national team after the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
While clarifying the issue late on Wednesday, a member of the NFF who pleaded anonymity described the reports as “baseless and misleading,” insisting that Chelle remains the substantive coach of the Super Eagles.
The NFF member, in his remarks, reaffirmed that there has been no discussion or plan within the NFF to make a technical change at this stage of the World Cup qualifiers.
“The attention of the Federation has been drawn to unfounded media speculation suggesting that Augustine Eguavoen will take charge of the Super Eagles after the World Cup qualifying series. This information is completely false,” the NFF’s communication department said. “Coach Eric Chelle retains the full confidence of the NFF and the support of the Sports Commission.”
Sources within the NSC also emphasised that the government is focused on maintaining stability in the technical crew as Nigeria aims to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They added that constant rumours of managerial changes are capable of distracting both players and officials during a crucial phase of the campaign.
Eguavoen, who previously served as interim coach during Nigeria’s 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign, is currently the NFF’s Technical Director. Officials confirmed he continues to perform in that advisory capacity and has not been approached for any coaching role.
