Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has said he is open to taking up a leadership role in the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) but insisted he would only do so under strict conditions that uphold transparency and integrity.
The ex-Chelsea midfielder, speaking in an interview, said his potential involvement in Nigerian football administration must be free of the corruption scandals that have long plagued the federation.
“One thing I have always done since my early days is fight for the country,” Mikel said, noting his service from the U17s to the senior national team. “Years of sacrifice. I have never, for once, said no to my country.”
Mikel, 38, stressed that he would be willing to contribute to rebuilding the football governing body but would not compromise on ethics.
“When I know I can give my opinion and help, I will always be ready,” he said. “But again, I won’t have corruption tied to me. I am never going to do that if I am going to say yes.”
He urged Nigerian football authorities to put in place credible leadership capable of restoring professionalism and trust.
“If you want us to move forward, you must make sure things are done properly,” he added. “Get the right people — people who have the same direction and mindset; so when the players come back home to play, there is a good environment for them to perform.”
His remarks come amid growing debates over reforms in the NFF, where calls for new leadership and structural overhaul continue to intensify.
