SEYI TINUBU CAN CHANGE NIGERIAN FOOTBALL — OBAFEMI MARTINS

Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins has backed Seyi Tinubu as a potential figure who could help transform Nigerian football, saying the president’s son understands what young Nigerians want and could contribute to changing the country’s football system.
Martins made the comments during an appearance on the Obi One Podcast, where he discussed the problems facing Nigerian football and the need for younger leadership within the administration of the game.
The former Inter Milan and Newcastle United forward said Nigerian football needs a young person who understands both the game and the system and can help bring about meaningful change.
“We just need someone that can help. A young person that understands the game, and the system that can help us. I think Seyi Tinubu can do that too.”
Martins added that Seyi Tinubu is young and understands what Nigerians want, arguing that he could make a difference if he chose to get involved.
The remarks come at a time of major uncertainty in Nigerian football. Nigeria Football Federation President Ibrahim Gusau, General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and members of the NFF Executive Committee recently resigned amid mounting pressure over the state of the country’s football administration.
The crisis has followed a difficult period for Nigeria’s national teams. The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the Super Falcons also suffered a disappointing campaign.
Following the leadership shake-up, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed a comprehensive reform of Nigerian football, with the proposed changes expected to address governance, administration, player-development pathways, domestic competitions and accountability.
The Nigeria Football Federation has also suspended the electoral process that was scheduled to lead to its September 27 elective congress. According to the NFF, a fresh electoral process will begin after the proposed reforms are completed in consultation with FIFA, CAF, government and other stakeholders.
Against this backdrop, Martins’ suggestion that Seyi Tinubu could help lead change in Nigerian football has generated significant interest.
However, Martins’ comments represent his personal endorsement and do not mean that Seyi Tinubu has been appointed, nominated or confirmed as a candidate for the NFF presidency.
Seyi Tinubu is better known for his activities in business, politics and entertainment, rather than for holding a formal position within Nigerian football administration.
Martins, who scored 18 goals in 42 appearances for the Super Eagles, believes the country now needs fresh thinking and younger leadership capable of understanding the challenges within the football system.
With Nigerian football entering a period of major reform, the question now is whether new leadership can restore confidence, improve administration and return the country’s national teams to the level expected by millions of Nigerian football fans.
Do you agree with Obafemi Martins? Can Seyi Tinubu really change Nigerian football? Tell us what you think in the comments.