Former Nigerian international Julius Aghahowa has described the appointment of Eric Chelle as the Super Eagles’ head coach as a “fire-brigade approach,” citing the urgency surrounding Nigeria’s push to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking on Brila FM’s No Holds Barred with Ifeanyi Udeze, Aghahowa stated that while he has nothing personal against the new coach, the timing of the appointment raises concerns.

“This is a fire-brigade approach. He should have been appointed when there was time to build long term. But these are very critical times,” Aghahowa remarked.

The former Super Eagles striker acknowledged the immense pressure on the national team to qualify for the World Cup but emphasized the importance of proper planning.

“Hopefully, he’ll bring in a different kind of mentality. We don’t have a talent problem. I will like to see how he impacts the team’s work rate and mentality.

Our problem has always been the mentality of players coming from the clubs to represent Nigeria,” Aghahowa added.

Eric Chelle, who was dismissed as Mali’s head coach after a disappointing start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, now faces the challenge of turning around Nigeria’s fortunes.

The 47-year-old will lead the Super Eagles in the remaining qualifiers, with the team currently struggling in their group.

The pressure is on for Chelle to instill a winning mentality and secure Nigeria’s place in the global showpiece.