Former Nigeria star Obafemi Martins backs Seyi Tinubu for NFF presidency

Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins has backed Seyi Tinubu as a potential candidate to lead the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), calling for a younger figure who understands football and the expectations of Nigerians.

Martins made the comments at a difficult time for Nigerian football, following a series of disappointing results involving both the men’s and women’s national teams.

The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the Super Falcons were eliminated in the quarter-finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The setbacks have increased pressure on the NFF and contributed to the resignation of Ibrahim Gusau as president of the federation last week, bringing his tenure to an end.

With Nigerian football now facing a period of uncertainty, Martins believes the NFF needs a new leader capable of bringing fresh ideas and a different approach to the administration of the game.

Speaking on the Obi One Podcast alongside former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel, the former Inter Milan striker was asked about the problems affecting Nigerian football and what should be done to improve the situation.

Martins called for a young leader who understands both the football landscape and the concerns of ordinary Nigerians.

“We just need someone that can help. A young person that understands the game, and the system that can help us,” Martins said.

The former Nigeria international then identified Seyi Tinubu, the son of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as someone he believes could potentially take on the challenge.

“I think Seyi Tinubu can do that too. He’s young and understands what Nigerian people want. He can change that if he wants to,” Martins added.

Martins’ comments come as attention turns to the future leadership of the NFF following Gusau’s resignation.

The former striker believes that a younger generation of leadership could bring a new perspective to Nigerian football and help address some of the issues that have affected the national teams.

However, any potential bid by Seyi Tinubu to lead the federation would depend on the NFF’s electoral process and eligibility requirements.

For Martins, the priority is finding someone capable of restoring confidence in Nigerian football and creating a system that can deliver better results for the country’s national teams.

The former Super Eagles forward’s endorsement is likely to generate discussion as the process of determining the NFF’s next leadership gets underway.