We’ll give Chelle all support to succeed — Gusau

President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has assured new Super Eagles coach, Eric Sékou Chelle, of total support to succeed in Nigeria.

Gusau stated this during the unveiling of the Franco-Malian gaffer at the Media Centre of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja on Monday. He urged every football stakeholder in Nigeria to rally around the former Malian coach who he said has shown the zeal to succeed on the job.

The NFF said he is impressed by the confidence and surefootedness that Chelle has shown in their interactions over the past few days saying he sees the Franco-Malian imbibing the Super Eagles with the same go-go attitude to turn around their fortunes in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying series.

“I see in the new Head Coach the right spirit and the right attitude, and I have faith that he will take the Super Eagles to the next level. He sees the job of leading the Super Eagles as his dream job, and that is a huge motivation in itself.

“Coach Chelle recognizes and appreciates what is ahead of him, and he says he loves the challenge. We will be there giving him the necessary support all the way.”

Gusau revealed that Chelle has signed a two-year contract, with the option of another year, if he qualifies the Super Eagles to the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.

“Chelle has also come into the job with three assistants and will work with the crew on the ground to enhance the Super Eagles’ brand. He will be with the Super Eagles B which is preparing for the upcoming 8th African Nations Championship only in a supervisory role, ” the NFF President added.

Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko affirmed the NSC’s support for the Franco-Malian, stating that he was satisfied with the process that led to his recruitment by the NFF.

“Football is that one factor that unites all Nigerians and gives them tremendous joy. On our part, we are satisfied with the process leading to Mr Chelle’s appointment and will support the NFF to ensure he has the most conducive atmosphere to do his job.

“The task of earning the World Cup ticket is for everyone as the government is fully ready to provide support, not in the form of any individual or group taking over the job of the NFF. The NFF is saddled with that responsibility; the Government will only support it with resources. I wish Coach Chelle the very best in the job.

Chelle, in his response, said he is excited to have landed the job with the promise to work on the scoring form of the Super Eagles saying football is about scoring goals.

“I want to thank my agent, the NFF, the NSC and indeed all Nigerians for this big opportunity. Coaching the Super Eagles of Nigeria is an amazing job; I do not take this appointment for granted. I am elated and will do my utmost best.

“Football is about scoring goals, so I favour an attacking style. I know the expectations of Nigerians and I will settle down and work diligently with assistants towards the goal of qualifying the Super Eagles to the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” Chelle said.

Presenting at the unveiling were Senior Special Assistant to the President of Grassroots Sports Development, Mr Adeyinka Adeboye; Chairman of the NFF Technical & Development Committee, Alhaji Sharif Rabiu Inuwa; NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi and others.