On Thursday, NANS staged a protest at the Moshood Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta to express their dissatisfaction, urging the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to immediately revoke the appointment.
The protest, led by Senate Clerk Abdul Yekinn Odunayo, saw NANS condemn the choice, stating that it fell short of the expectations of Nigerians and football fans alike.
The students further warned of a potential nationwide protest if their demands are not addressed, calling for the appointment of a more qualified coach with the tactical expertise to fully utilize the country’s abundant football talent.
“We are gathered here today to address an issue that has not only baffled us but has also drawn widespread disapproval from Nigerian students and sports enthusiasts alike,” Odunayo said.
“On behalf of the National Association of Nigerian Students, I, Abdul-Yekinn Odunayo, Clerk of the Senate of NANS National Headquarters, wish to categorically express our displeasure over the appointment of Eric Sekou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles.
“This appointment, as announced by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), is not only unacceptable but also a slap in the face of our nation’s abundant pool of local coaching talent. Consequently, NANS, as the voice of the Nigerian students, is compelled to organise a national protest to demand a reversal of this decision.”