Obafemi Martins Backs Seyi Tinubu for NFF President Amid Nigerian Football Crisis

Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins has publicly endorsed Seyi Tinubu as a potential president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), arguing the President’s son has the youth and insight needed to reform Nigerian football.

Speaking on the Obi One Podcast with former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel, Martins pointed to long-standing problems in the administration of the game.

He said Nigerian football has struggled with leadership issues for years and needs a fresh approach.

“I think Seyi Tinubu can be the president of NFF. He is young and understands what Nigerians want,” Martins said. “He’s not the president yet, but he is making efforts. We just need someone that can help. A young person that understands the game and the system that can help us. I think he can change that.”

The comments come as the NFF faces a major leadership vacuum. Ibrahim Musa Gusau recently resigned as NFF president, followed by the general secretary and several executive committee members.

The resignations followed repeated failures by national teams, including the Super Eagles missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Super Falcons’ early exit from the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Martins, who scored 18 goals in 42 appearances for Nigeria and played at the 2010 World Cup, stressed that younger leadership with a clear understanding of public expectations is essential.

He described Seyi Tinubu, a 40-year-old businessman, lawyer and philanthropist, as someone already showing engagement with football and youth issues.

Seyi Tinubu has not declared any interest in the NFF presidency. His father, President Bola Tinubu, earlier ordered a comprehensive reform of Nigerian football to address qualification failures and structural problems.

The endorsement has drawn mixed reactions within football circles.

Some former players have questioned the suggestion, arguing that experienced football figures or other younger ex-internationals would be better placed to lead the federation.

Others see Martins’ comments as a call for new blood and stronger connection between administrators and fans.

Nigerian football has long been criticized for poor governance, delayed player bonuses, inadequate preparation for major tournaments and limited investment in grassroots development.

Many stakeholders believe the current reform process offers a rare chance to reset the system.

Martins’ remarks have intensified discussion about who should take charge once the reform is complete.

While Seyi Tinubu remains outside formal football administration, the former striker’s backing has placed the idea firmly in the public conversation.

As the NFF prepares for a new era, the focus remains on finding leadership capable of restoring competitiveness to the Super Eagles, Super Falcons and the domestic game.

Whether Seyi Tinubu becomes a serious contender or not, Obafemi Martins has made clear his view that youth, understanding of the Nigerian public and willingness to engage are the qualities the federation needs most.