The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Executive Committee has named Éric Sékou Chelle as the new Head Coach of Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team, the Super Eagles.
The decision followed the recommendation of the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee during its meeting held in Abuja on January 2, 2025.
The appointment was formally endorsed by the NFF Executive Committee on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
Chelle, 47, is a former head coach of Mali’s senior national team and brings a wealth of experience, having managed clubs such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran.
During his playing career in France, he represented Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais.
Born in Côte d’Ivoire to a French father and a Malian mother, Chelle was eligible to represent Côte d’Ivoire, France, and Mali among other achievements in football history.
Recalled that the Super Eagles’ head coach position became vacant following Finidi George’s resignation after disappointing results in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, including a draw against South Africa and a loss to the Benin Republic.
However, Chelle’s appointment is effective immediately, and his primary task will be to guide Nigeria to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals which has been scheduled for March.
