Amid reports suggesting his resignation, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Technical Director, Austin Eguavoen, has firmly denied stepping down as interim coach of the Super Eagles. Eguavoen, who oversaw the recent 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda, clarified that he remains in charge as the team prepares for their next round of qualifiers against Libya in October.
The rumors of his resignation surfaced after Nigeria’s goalless draw against Rwanda in Kigali on Tuesday, following a strong 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, earlier in the series. According to media reports, Eguavoen was said to have stepped down following the Kigali match, but the coach dismissed these claims upon arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
“It’s quite unfortunate that people trigger stories that aren’t correct, especially given the situation we’re in now,” Eguavoen told reporters. “We don’t need negative stories. I never said I was stepping down. What I did say was that I would sit down with the NFF hierarchy after these two games to discuss how to approach the next round of matches.”
Eguavoen was appointed interim coach of the Super Eagles after the NFF was unable to secure German coach Bruno Labbadia due to complications involving Germany’s stringent tax laws. His task was to guide the team through the two 2025 AFCON qualifiers. His leadership saw Nigeria secure a convincing victory against Benin Republic, but the team struggled to break down Rwanda’s defense in the second match, leading to a 0-0 draw.
Despite the mixed results, Eguavoen emphasized that he remains fully committed to the role. “Whatever people are reading out there isn’t correct. I’m still very much in charge,” he said. “As Technical Director of the NFF, it is my responsibility to guide the Super Eagles at this time, and I will continue to do so.”
Looking ahead, Eguavoen will focus on preparing the Super Eagles for their double-header against Libya next month, as Nigeria continues its campaign to secure qualification for the 2025 AFCON. The NFF is expected to review the team’s progress and performance in the coming weeks, but for now, Eguavoen remains at the helm, determined to lead the team through the qualifiers.
Eguavoen’s experience and leadership will be key as the Super Eagles aim to build on their recent performances and secure their place in the prestigious continental tournament.
