The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced ongoing discussions with major brands in Nigeria to secure funding for a potential foreign head coach, should one be hired.
NFF President Ibrahim Gusau confirmed that negotiations are underway with notable companies, including telecommunications leader MTN, popular lottery provider Baba Ijebu, and conglomerate BUA, to cover the allowances for a foreign coach if appointed.
Gusau emphasized the importance of securing funding beforehand to avoid financial concerns related to the coach’s salary.
“We are currently in discussion with Dangote Group, BUA, MTN, Baba Ijebu and others on the payment of foreign coach. Though, Eguavoen is doing well, but if we must engage a coach, we must make sure that the issue of payment is sorted.”
Eguavoen, who is also the NFF’s technical director, stepped in to lead the Super Eagles following the collapse of negotiations with German coach Bruno Labbadia in August. Reportedly, the NFF withdrew from the deal due to Labbadia’s request that the federation handle his tax obligations in Germany during his tenure with the Super Eagles.
Under Eguavoen’s guidance, the Super Eagles have achieved three wins and one draw in his latest coaching stint. The former national team captain will lead the team in their final qualifying matches for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations against Benin Republic and Rwanda later this month.
The Super Eagles currently top Group D in the qualifiers with 10 points from four games.
