Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins has backed Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as a potential candidate to lead the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Martins made the suggestion amid growing concerns over the state of Nigerian football, with the national teams experiencing a series of disappointing results despite some progress in the domestic league.
The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the Super Falcons suffered a historic quarter-final exit at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The Flying Eagles also failed to qualify for the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, ruling them out of the corresponding World Cup, while the country’s Under-17 team has equally struggled in recent years.
The situation led to Ibrahim Gusau’s resignation as NFF president last week. Although Gusau described his departure as a personal decision motivated by his love for Nigerian football, there has been speculation that the federal government may have influenced the development.
With the NFF expected to undergo significant changes and a new leadership structure likely to emerge, Seyi Tinubu’s name has now been mentioned as a possible option.
Why Martins is backing Seyi Tinubu
Martins, who scored 18 goals in 42 appearances for the Super Eagles, enjoyed a successful club career across Europe and other parts of the world, including spells with Inter Milan and Newcastle United. He also played in Russia, China, the United States and Spain before retiring from professional football in 2020 at the age of 41.
Since retiring, Martins has remained closely connected to the Nigerian football scene and is often seen around current footballers, entertainers and other public figures.
Speaking on the latest episode of the ObiOne Podcast, Martins discussed the problems affecting the NFF and argued that Nigerian football needs a major overhaul.
When asked who could help transform the system, Martins identified Seyi Tinubu as one possible option.
”We just need someone that can help. A young person that understands the game, and the system that can help us,” Martins said.
”I think Seyi Tinubu can do that too. He’s young and understands what Nigerian people want. He can change that if he wants to.”
Seyi Tinubu is widely known for his political activities and connections within Nigeria’s entertainment space, rather than for any established involvement in football administration. Martins’ endorsement has therefore generated considerable interest and debate.
However, any future leadership of the NFF would require individuals with strong football knowledge, administrative experience, a credible track record and a clear plan for rebuilding the sport.