Tinubu’s aide pledges government support as Chelle prepares for World Cup qualifiers

By Olaolu Joseph

Super Eagles’ tactician Eric Sekou Chelle has been assured of the support of the Federal Government in his quest to lead the team to a successful campaign.

This assurance came from the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Grassroots Sports, Honourable Anthony Adeyinka Adeboye, who hosted the Super Eagles’ gaffer ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers this month.

Adeboye welcomed the Malian tactician to his Abuja office on Wednesday, a day after Chelle announced his provisional squad for the games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

During their meeting, the president’s aide assured Chelle of the Federal Government’s support as he gears up for his first competitive match as Nigeria’s coach since his appointment in January.

He stressed that the Nigerian government is keen on seeing the Eagles qualify for the 2026 World Cup, which will be staged in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The Super Eagles are currently in fifth position in Group C, with three points, having secured three draws and yet to win a game after four matches.

Chelle’s side faces group leaders Rwanda, who sit atop the group with seven points, at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on March 21.

Four days later, the Nigerian side will return to the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo to take on bottom-placed Zimbabwe, who occupy the rear with two points.

Earlier in the week, Honourable Adeboye had an engagement with former Super Eagles and Inter Milan striker Obafemi Martins, discussing grassroots football development in the country.