The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially appointed Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle as the Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team. This decision follows a recommendation from the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee.
During a meeting in Abuja on January 2, 2025, the Sub-Committee proposed Chelle, who previously coached Mali’s senior national team, for the position. The NFF Executive Committee approved this recommendation on January 7.
Chelle, a former player with five caps for Mali, has coached various clubs including GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran. He led Mali’s national team since 2022, guiding them to a near semifinal finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, where they were narrowly defeated by the hosts, 2-1, after extra time.
At 47, Chelle has an extensive playing background, having represented clubs such as Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais in France.
His appointment takes effect immediately, with the objective of steering the Super Eagles towards qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The next round of matches (Matchdays 5 & 6) is scheduled for March.
