Obafemi Martins Backs Seyi Tinubu To Revolutionise Nigerian Football

Obafemi Martins Backs Seyi Tinubu to Revolutionise Nigerian Football

Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins has backed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, to help transform and revolutionise Nigerian football amid the ongoing crisis in the country’s football administration. Martins made the remarks while speaking on the Obi One Podcast, hosted by former Super Eagles teammate John Obi Mikel. The former Inter Milan and Newcastle United forward said Nigerian football needs a young person who understands the game and the system and can help bring meaningful change. Martins specifically identified Seyi Tinubu as someone he believes could play a role in overhauling the sport and addressing some of its longstanding challenges. His comments come after President Tinubu directed a comprehensive reform of Nigerian football following repeated failures by the national teams to qualify for major international competitions. The reform directive followed a period of turmoil in Nigerian football, including the resignation of NFF President Ibrahim Gusau and members of his executive committee on August 27, 2026. Martins’ endorsement also comes amid concerns about poor infrastructure, weak administration and inadequate development pathways within Nigerian football. During the podcast, Mikel highlighted some of the infrastructural challenges facing the national teams, including the lack of a dedicated training pitch and permanent camp facilities. Martins argued that fresh leadership and a better understanding of the system could help address these problems and create a stronger foundation for the development of Nigerian football. However, the former striker’s suggestion has generated mixed reactions among football supporters, with some questioning whether Seyi Tinubu should play a major role in football administration. The debate comes as the Federal Government begins efforts to implement broad reforms aimed at strengthening governance, accountability, player development and domestic competitions.