Martins faces backlash over Seyi Tinubu NFF endorsement

Obafemi Martins’ suggestion that Seyi Tinubu could help lead the Nigeria Football Federation has triggered criticism from former players and social media users.

Martins made the comments on The Obi One Podcast, hosted by former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel. He said Nigerian football needed a fresh approach and argued that a young person who understood the game and the system could help. “And I think Seyi Tinubu can do that too,” Martins said.

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I mean, it’s always been like that, you know, so we just need someone that can help. Someone, you know, a young person that understands the game, that understands the system, that can help us. And I think Seyi Tinubu can do that too.

The comments came after NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and other board members resigned amid public criticism of their leadership. The shake-up followed Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Super Falcons’ failure to secure a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

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For me, it’s a bad idea. I don’t know what made Martins make such a statement, maybe because he’s a friend to Seyi Tinubu, but as I said, I don’t buy the idea.

Ifeanyi Udeze, speaking on Brila FM, rejected Martins’ choice. “For me, it’s a bad idea. I don’t know what made Martins make such a statement, maybe because he’s a friend to Seyi Tinubu, but as I said, I don’t buy the idea,” Udeze said. He added that Martins could have mentioned other young football figures, such as Seyi Olofinjana.

The endorsement also drew criticism online. Facebook user Anthony Azubuike said Martins had “goofed, big time,” while Aina Ariyo accused him of belonging to a political movement reportedly established by Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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The guy (Martins) goofed, big time. He might be eyeing one appointment or contract, but his plan is void ab initio.