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“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 my assistants towards the goal of qualifying the Super Eagles to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”

That’s the verdict and submission of the new manager of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Éric Sékou Chelle.

The Franco-Mali born gaffer, gave this submission and assurance on Monday in Abuja, after he signed a two year renewable contract to handle the senior national male football team of Nigeria.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), that has been having a running nose over the appointment of a manager for the Super Eagles for over 8 months, said they are elated to have the 47 year old Franco-Mali gaffer in their fold.

His principal task is to secure a 2026 World Cup ticket for Nigeria. Nigeria started it’s quest to reach the World Cup finals next year on a very shambolic fashion, languishing at the fifth spot in Group C with 3 points from 4 games.

Rwanda, South Africa and Benin Republic are on 7 points each while Lesotho has 5 points, Zimbabwe are the first from the rear with just 2 points. The vayoge to reach the World Cup finals resumes in March.

The man who has struggled to put Nigeria football on the right path since he took over from Amaju Pinnick, Ibrahim Gusau, says the future of the Super Eagles is bright with Éric Sékou Chelle.

“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 disclosed that the tactician 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 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.

As expected the 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, who won five caps for the Aiglons of Mali in a playing career that also saw him playing for FC Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres and Chamois Niortais, said he is excited to land the job of coaching one of Africa’s biggest football names.

“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.

It’s noteworthy to mention that, Éric Sékou Chelle, was fired by the Mali Football Federation after he failed to go beyond the quarter finals stage at the last African Nations Cup finals hosted and won by the Elephants of Cote D’Ivoire.

Interesting, Mali bite the dust in the quarter finals stage at the hands of ten man Cote D’Ivoire.