Obafemi Martins backs Seyi Tinubu for NFF leadership, Nigerians react

Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins has thrown his support behind Seyi Tinubu, saying the President’s son could bring positive changes to Nigerian football if given the opportunity to lead the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Speaking on the need for younger leadership within Nigerian football, Martins said Seyi Tinubu is young and understands what Nigerians want, qualities he believes could help transform the game.

“He’s young and he understands what Nigerian people want. I think he can change that. He can change that. He can change that,” Martins said.

When asked whether Seyi Tinubu was already doing enough, the former striker acknowledged that he is not the President but said he has been making efforts.

“I mean, he’s not the President, but still he’s making an effort,” he added.

Martins’ comments come amid ongoing conversations about the need for fresh leadership and reforms within Nigerian football.

The former Super Eagles star’s endorsement, however, has sparked mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians questioning why established football legends such as Jay-Jay Okocha and Kanu Nwankwo have not been considered for leadership roles within the NFF.

Others criticised Martins for backing the President’s son, while some expressed disappointment with his position.

Reacting on social media, one user wrote, “Them don share rice reach him side too. Oloshi.”

Another said, “Different tactics.”

A third commenter wrote, “Legend don go smoke wetin Portable dey smoke.”

Another compared the situation to appointing someone without the relevant expertise to lead a specialised institution, while another questioned the Tinubu family’s alleged interest in presidential positions.

One disappointed fan wrote: “Honestly I dey disappointed for wetin Obafemi Martins talk. Wetin happen to you, Jay Jay Okocha, Kanu and other football legends? Why una no fit step up make una lead NFF instead of dey make this kind disappointing statement?”