Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins has suggested that Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, could become president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), saying Nigerian football needs younger leadership that understands the game and the country’s challenges.
Martins made the comment during an appearance on The Obi One Podcast hosted by former Super Eagles captain Mikel John Obi and Chris McHardy, as discussions continue over the future of Nigerian football following the resignation of the NFF leadership.
Martins Backs Younger Leadership
Speaking about the kind of leadership Nigerian football needs, Martins said the country should consider younger people who understand both the sport and its administrative system.
“We just need someone that can help a young person that understands the game, the system that can help us and I think Seyi Tinubu can do that too,” he said.
The former Inter Milan and Newcastle United forward added that Seyi Tinubu is young and understands what Nigerians want, suggesting he could bring changes if he chose to become involved.
“He’s young and he understands what Nigeria people want and I think he can change that, if he wants to he can change that,” Martins said.
He, however, acknowledged that Seyi Tinubu is not currently president of the country but said he has been making efforts in his own capacity.
Comments Come After NFF Leadership Resignation
Martins’ remarks come amid major changes at the NFF following the resignation of President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and members of the federation’s executive committee in late August.
The leadership faced sustained criticism following a series of disappointing results involving Nigeria’s national teams, including the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and setbacks involving the Super Falcons.
President Bola Tinubu has subsequently ordered reforms aimed at addressing governance, administration, development pathways and accountability within Nigerian football.
Seyi Tinubu Has No Formal NFF Role
Seyi Tinubu does not currently hold a known formal position within the NFF and has no extensive publicly documented background in football administration.
His name has nonetheless featured in discussions around youth mobilisation and political activities, making Martins’ suggestion likely to generate debate over the kind of experience required to lead Nigeria’s football governing body.
Some reactions to the comments have welcomed the idea of bringing younger people into football administration, while others have questioned whether youth alone is sufficient without a strong record in sports management.
The NFF is currently undergoing a leadership transition, with an elective congress scheduled for September 27, 2026, in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
