‘They're so corrupt’ - Mikel Obi criticises Nigeria Football Federation

Former Nigeria captain John Mikel Obi has revealed why he has stayed away from working with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) so far, despite calls for him to take a leadership role in Nigerian football.

Speaking on his podcast with former Black Stars captain Andre Ayew, he said he has been taking his time and waiting for the right moment before making any move into football administration.

According to the former Chelsea midfielder, his decision is largely influenced by the current leadership of Nigerian football, whom he claims he cannot work with.

I will campaign for Dede Ayew to become GFA President – Mikel Obi

“I'm just taking my time. I'm trying to find my time, to find the right time, because these people that are running the football right now, I can't work with them," Mikel said.

He further alleged that corruption within the system is a major reason for his reluctance to get involved.

“They're so corrupt. They’re so corrupt that I can't work with them."

“I can’t work with them because they’re so corrupt.”

John Mikel Obi explains why he is not working with the Nigeria Football Federation.#JoySports pic.twitter.com/fvY8uhDtWf

— #JoySports (@JoySportsGH) August 23, 2026