NFSC blames marginalisation for Nigeria's national teams failure to qualify for major tournaments

NFSC blames marginalisation for Nigeria's national teams failure to qualify for major tournaments

The Nigeria Football Supporters Club (NFSC) has identified the marginalisation and non-involvement of the 70-year-old supporters’ body as one of the key reasons behind Nigeria’s national teams’ failure to qualify for major tournaments.

In a letter addressed to the Nigeria Football Federation’s Ad-hoc Committee on Investigating Reasons for Nigeria’s National Teams’ Failure to Qualify for Major Tournaments, the NFSC said the exclusion of the group has weakened fan mobilization, morale, and home support for the teams.

The letter dated August 16, 2026, was signed by the National Chairman of the Club, Rev. (Amb.) Samuel Ikpea.

While commending the NFF for setting up the committee, Rev. Ikpea noted that the NFSC, with over 70 years of history, has played a critical role as the “12th man” for the Super Eagles and other national teams.

“The NFSC has historically served as the 12th man for the Super Eagles and other national teams. Our role in mobilising fans, creating home advantage, boosting players’ morale, and projecting a positive image of Nigeria at home and abroad is well documented,” the statement stated.

The Club recalled being recognized internationally, citing FIFA's commendation of NFSC as the “Most Behaved Supporters Club” when the Super Eagles made her World Cup debut at the USA 1994 FIFA World Cup.

According to the letter, the current disconnect between the NFF and the supporters’ body has led to poor fan turnout, lack of coordinated chants and support during qualifiers, and a dwindling emotional link between the players and Nigerians.

“Football is not won on the pitch alone. The psychological, motivational, and spiritual support provided by fans through melodious tunes has been central to Nigeria’s past footballing successes,” Rev. Ikpea added.

The NFSC urged the NFF and the Ad-hoc Committee to reintegrate the supporters’ club into the planning and execution of national team programmes, stressing that countries with consistent football success treat their supporters’ organizations as critical stakeholders.

The Club said it looks forward to making further submissions to the committee to help reposition Nigerian football.