Allen Onyema, the CEO of Airpeace, has voiced his opposition to the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) decision to hire another foreign coach for the national team. The Super Eagles currently lack a coach following the expiration of Jose Peseiro’s contract in February. In the interim, former international player Finidi George has been appointed to oversee the team for upcoming friendly matches against Ghana and Mali.
Onyema, a staunch supporter of the Super Eagles, has cautioned the NFF against overlooking local candidates in favor of foreign coaches. In an interview with City People Online, he expressed his belief that there are capable individuals within the country who could lead the team. He cited the relative success of past Nigerian coaches, such as Eguavoen, and emphasized the need to give Nigerian coaches equal opportunities. Onyema criticized the tendency to blame Nigerian coaches for shortcomings while overlooking similar outcomes under foreign coaches. He urged Nigerians to oppose any decision by the NFF to appoint a foreign coach over a qualified local candidate.