A new dawn is here: NFF unveils Eric Chelle as new Super Eagles head coach

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially unveiled Eric Sekou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, signalling a significant moment in Nigerian football.

The announcement was made during a lavish ceremony held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja on Monday afternoon.

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This event follows Chelle's appointment earlier in January, which was confirmed after recommendations from the NFF's Technical and Development Committee.

Chelle, a 47-year-old Franco-Malian coach, takes the helm as the third coach of the Super Eagles since the departure of Portuguese manager Jose Peseiro.

His primary responsibilities will include guiding the team through the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) in East Africa and leading them in their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Super Eagles will face Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March as part of their qualifying campaign.

The NFF took to social media platform X, formerly Twitter, to share the latest development, describing it as a new dawn.

“The SuperEagles have a new coach,” the post read. “Eric Sekou Chelle is the new coach of the SuperEagles. A new dawn is here.”

The federation aims to harness Chelle's experience and fresh perspective as they prepare for crucial matches ahead.

Chelle's coaching journey includes notable achievements with the Mali national team, where he led them to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

His tenure is noted by a strong record and reputation for nurturing young talent. However, his appointment has sparked mixed reactions among fans, some of whom have expressed scepticism regarding his foreign nationality and coaching credentials.

Nevertheless, the NFF has called on Nigerians to support the new boss as he is expected to bring innovative strategies and a renewed energy to one of Africa's most followed football teams.