Sports Minister, John Enoh has expressed his dismay over the failed appointment of German coach, Bruno Labbadia, for the vacant Super Eagles Job.

Labbadia, who was officially announced as the new head coach by the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) on August 27, withdrew from the role just days later.

The NFF had initially announced Labbadia’s appointment with high hopes, However, the deal unravelled due to the coverage of Labbadia’s taxes.

According to the NFF, the tax details were never discussed during negotiations, and Labbadia had initially agreed to all terms. However, as the tax issue emerged, Labbadia insisted that the NFF cover the full tax amount but the NFF couldn’t meet this demand, which saw the deal collapse.

Bruno Labbadia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Following Labbadia’s withdrawal, Augustine Eguavoen was reinstated as interim head coach a role he has now assumed for the fourth time.

In an interview with Arise TV, Sports Minister John Enoh did not hold back his frustration regarding the handling of the situation.

Minister of Sports Development, John Owan Enoh had a tour of the National Stadium Lagos. Photo | BRL

“This was very embarrassing and regrettable,” Enoh said.

He revealed that he had promptly contacted the NFF to seek clarification on why the appointment was announced before all terms were finalized.

“I quickly reached out to the NFF to ask why they announced the coach’s appointment before finalising everything. Their response was that they had received a commitment from the coach.”

Future of the Super Eagles’ Coach Search

As of now, it remains uncertain whether the NFF will continue their search for a new head coach or if they will maintain their trust in Augustine Eguavoen for the remaining 2025 AFCON qualifiers fixtures.

Austin Eguavoen. Photo | X

Under Eguavoen for the two games, the Super Eagles showed promising signs. They secured an impressive 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo and managed a draw against Rwanda, and not top the group with your points.

Though rumors had circulated that Eguavoen had stepped down from the role, Eguavoen has addressed the rumors regarding his position, stating clearly:

“Whatever people are reading out there is not correct, I am still very much in charge and still the Technical Director of Nigeria Football Federation saddled with the responsibility of being in charge of the Super Eagles at this moment and that’s where we are.”