‘Yobo, Go and Tell the Super Eagles, We Are Not Happy’: Wike Laments Nigeria’s World Cup Absence
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has voiced strong disappointment over Nigeria’s absence from the ongoing FIFA World Cup, urging former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo to convey the nation’s frustration to the team.
Speaking at the official commissioning of the Kuje to Gwagwalada dual carriageway, Phase 1, Wike lamented that while smaller nations such as Curaçao, with a population of just 156,000, and others like Haiti, are competing on football’s biggest stage, Nigeria is missing.
He noted that at least 13 Nigerian-born players are representing other countries at the tournament, yet the Super Eagles failed to qualify.
‘Yobo, go and tell them, we are not happy,’ Wike declared, emphasizing that Nigerians expect their national team to be present at the World Cup, given the country’s rich footballing history and talent pool.
The minister’s remarks reflect widespread public sentiment, as fans across Nigeria continue to express disappointment at the team’s failure to reach the finals. Wike’s comments also highlight the irony of Nigerian talent flourishing abroad while the national side struggles to make an impact.
Nigeria, three-time African champions, last appeared at the World Cup in 2018, and their absence in 2026 has reignited calls for reform and accountability within the country’s football administration.
