Iwobi Reveals NFF’s Failings, Exposes Super Eagles’ Logistical Woes

Alex Iwobi has revealed the extent of the Nigerian Football Federation’s disorganization during his appearance on the High-Performance podcast.

The Fulham midfielder drew a sharp contrast between his time with England and Nigeria, describing the Super Eagles’ setup as chaotic compared to the strict professionalism he experienced at St George’s Park.

‘Playing for England and playing for Nigeria are two very different things. In England, things are stricter. Whenever you’re at St George’s, or you’re at the hotel, no one’s allowed to come in.

‘The schedule was strict, alongside the food and the sleep regime. In Nigeria now, I have to watch what I say,’ Iwobi explained.

He went on to highlight the logistical lapses that players often face when representing Nigeria.

‘Sometimes, your flight is not booked properly, you have to do that yourself, and when you land, the people at the airport are not ready to pick you up. So, you have to sometimes make your own way. The hotels are okay, but sometimes the light goes out, and you don’t have anywhere to charge your phone.’

Iwobi also recalled his early experiences with Nigeria’s U-23 side, admitting it took convincing from his family to commit.

‘My uncle and my dad said to me to try Nigeria once. It took a lot of convincing at the time for me to try the U-23 side. The pitches we played on had half grass, half astro-turfs and a bit of sand.

‘The coaches were strict in the sense that if you miss a pass, you’re not just called out for your mistakes; you have to do a lap around the pitch.’

Despite the frustrations, Iwobi insisted he has no regrets about representing Nigeria.

‘I do love England, but I think because I grew up in a Nigerian household, it’s always been a part of me,’ he concluded.