Ex-Nigeria international Jonathan Akpoborie has weighed in on the controversy surrounding Victor Osimhen’s recent outburst against ex-coach Finidi George, condemning the forward’s actions but urging Nigerians not to make the same mistake he made.

Speaking on “No Holds Barred” with Ifeanyi Udeze on Brila FM, Akpoborie emphasized the need for Osimhen to apologize but also for Nigerians to forgive and move on.

“He has to apologize to Nigerians, knowing that this kind of thing can happen sometimes, even though it is not supposed to happen,” the former Wolfsburg Forward said.

“It’s wrong the way he reacted, there are better ways to handle such issues. But we should not jump to conclusions and say we want to throw him into the water. If we do that, we will make the same mistake Osimhen made.”

Addressing the Super Eagles’ chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, Akpoborie criticized the NFF for labeling the chances as “impossible” and asking Nigerians to pray.

“You are in a position to affect what is happening in the team, but you are telling people that language. If any of the players listen to that, especially if someone lacks confidence, they might already be scared when it is time to play the World Cup qualifiers.

“That’s why, in national teams, you don’t allow just anyone near the players. Nigerian coaches don’t do that, but European coaches will say, ‘Look, it’s two or three days to the game; please don’t come near my team.”

“The players won’t see anyone unless the coach approves because the coach is wary of what you say that will affect the players.“

Akpoborie concluded by emphasizing the need to emulate European standards in organizing and managing the team.

“It’s time to emulate the Europeans because they have organized the game to reach this advanced level. We have players and talents, but we need to organize ourselves and use the talents well.”