The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced the appointment of Éric Sékou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team.
The decision, made following a recommendation by the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee, was ratified by the NFF Executive Committee on January 7, 2025, during a meeting in Abuja.
Chelle, 47, brings extensive experience from both his playing and managerial careers. A former head coach of Mali’s national team, he also managed clubs including GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran.
Born in Côte d’Ivoire to a French father and a Malian mother, Chelle was eligible to represent Côte d’Ivoire, France, and Mali as a player. He chose Mali, earning five international caps before retiring.
As Mali’s head coach from 2022 to 2024, Chelle led the Aiglons to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire, where they narrowly lost to the eventual champions in extra time. Under his guidance, Mali recorded an impressive record of 14 wins, five draws, and three losses.
The Super Eagles coaching role became vacant after Finidi George resigned due to poor results in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, including a draw with South Africa and a loss to the Benin Republic.
Chelle’s appointment is effective immediately, with his primary task being to secure Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals. The decisive Matchday 5 and 6 qualifiers are set for March.
