Former Super Eagles captain and forward, Kanu Nwankwo has voiced strong support for Augustine Eguavoen to be appointed as the permanent head coach of the team, urging the Nigeria Football Federation, to make the decision without further delay.
Eguavoen, currently serving as the Super Eagles’ interim head coach, stepped in following the resignation of Finidi George and the NFF’s failed deal to sign Bruno Labbadia, whose appointment was announced only to be rescinded shortly after.
Since taking over, Eguavoen has managed the AFCON qualifiers securing two wins, one draw, and one win by forfeit due to a CAF ruling regarding Nigeria’s match with Libya.
The Super Eagles now stand with 10 points from four games, needing just one more to confirm their qualification for AFCON 2025 in Morocco.
In an exclusive interview with Brila.net, Kanu expressed his frustration with the NFF’s delay in making Eguavoen’s role permanent.
According to the former forward, Eguavoen has already proven his capability and should not have to wait until he faces setbacks before receiving full support.
“If I were the NFF president, I’d have given him the job by now,” Kanu said. “What are they waiting for? Are we waiting for him to lose two matches before we say he should go? This is overdue; they have to act.”
Kanu emphasized that stability is crucial, pointing out that when a coach is performing well, they should be backed, not kept in uncertainty.
“They brought someone in, he’s doing well, winning matches—what else are you looking for?” Kanu asked. “When coaches are doing well, you keep them.”
“If they’re still looking for the ‘right one,’ when is that going to come?” he questioned. “We don’t have time, qualifications here and there.”