The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially announced the appointment of Éric Sékou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles. The 47-year-old Malian tactician has been entrusted with the significant task of leading Nigeria to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Chelle’s appointment came on the recommendation of the NFF Technical and Development Sub-Committee following a decisive meeting held in Abuja. With his vast experience and tactical acumen, the former Mali senior men’s national team coach is expected to bring fresh dynamism to one of Africa’s most celebrated football teams.

Éric Sékou Chelle’s coaching resume is impressive, with stints at several clubs, including GS Consolat, FC Martigues, MC Oran, and Boulogne. During his tenure as head coach, Chelle has overseen 159 matches, recording 70 wins, 42 draws, and 47 defeats.

His most notable achievement in international football came during his time with the Mali national team. Chelle guided the team to the quarterfinals of the last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament held in Côte d’Ivoire. Despite a brilliant display throughout the tournament, Mali fell to the host nation in a tightly contested quarterfinal match.

Chelle faces a daunting challenge as he steps into the spotlight with the Super Eagles. Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup left fans and stakeholders deeply disappointed, and expectations for redemption are at an all-time high.

Chelle’s first task will be to evaluate the pool of Nigerian talent both locally and abroad. With a rich vein of players competing in top leagues worldwide, he has the tools to craft a formidable squad.

As Nigeria embarks on its journey to the 2026 World Cup, fans will be watching closely to see if Chelle can reignite the Super Eagles’ spark and lead them to success. For the NFF and the millions of supporters, the hope is that his appointment will mark the beginning of a new and triumphant chapter in Nigerian football history.