Former Nigeria International, Godwin Okpara has expressed doubts about the recent appointment of the Super Eagles’ coach, suggesting that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) could have aimed higher.

Okpara, who played for the national team during his career, voiced his concerns regarding the selection of a coach who is relatively unknown, rather than a more established, world-class option.

Godwin Okpara in action for Nigeria. The former Midfielder in Brila FM’s studio (inset). Credit: Getty Images

“We were expecting something bigger than this, but we’re so surprised they went there and got us a coach that we don’t really know and we’re trying to know.

“So, for the name we have, we are not supposed to be looking after coaches like this. Are you telling me that Nigeria is not able to come up with a world-class coach? Don’t you think we deserve a world-class coach? Tell me. Do you think we don’t have that resource? We have it,” Okpara lamented.

The Super Eagles line up for a photo.

The former defender also highlighted the lack of transparency regarding the coach’s salary and contract details.

“I don’t know how much they’re paying him. You know, they didn’t discuss anything about that. We’re supposed to know how much they are paying him,” he added.

The NFF headquarters in Abuja. Photo | Punch

Despite his reservations, Okpara expressed hope that the new coach will be able to meet the expectations and deliver on the mandate for which he was signed.

His comments reflect a broader concern among some fans and analysts who believe that the Super Eagles should be led by a coach with a more prominent reputation on the global stage.