NFF set to review Chelle’s backroom staff after AFCON Bronze

The Technical Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is set to meet with Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle in a move aimed at consolidating the team’s recent progress.

Top on the agenda is a review of his backroom staff, particularly the role and effectiveness of his local assistants.

Currently, Nigerian coaches Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Ilechukwu serve as Chelle’s domestic aides. However, critics argue that the pair have not made sufficient impact within the technical crew, a situation that has reportedly led Chelle to rely more heavily on his foreign assistants.

According to reports, the committee plans to hold a candid discussion with Chelle to assess whether he is comfortable with the present structure or if adjustments are necessary to better align with his tactical philosophy.

Despite the scrutiny surrounding the backroom setup, Chelle’s position as head coach remains secure. The Franco-Malian tactician recently guided Nigeria to a bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and still has one year left on his contract. High-level talks over a possible extension are said to be underway, as the NFF seeks continuity ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

In a related development, the NFF has declared vacancies across several national youth and women’s teams. Applications are being invited for the following positions:

U-23 Men’s Team (Olympic Eagles)

U-20 Men’s Team (Flying Eagles)

U-17 Men’s Team (Golden Eaglets)

U-17 Women’s Team (Flamingos)

The Technical Committee has set a one-week deadline for submissions, after which shortlisted candidates will undergo interviews in what officials describe as a transparent selection process.

The vacancies follow the conclusion of various tournament cycles. The affected teams were previously led by Salisu Yusuf (U-23), Aliyu Zubairu (Flying Eagles), who recently moved to Telecom Egypt SC, Manu Garba (Golden Eaglets), and Bankole Olowookere (Flamingos).

Notably, Daniel Ogunmodede is rumoured to be among the frontrunners for the Flying Eagles head coach role, potentially seeking a fresh challenge away from his dual responsibilities with the senior national team.