Tuesday, May 5, 2026 - Former Nigerian international footballer, Osaze Odemwingie has advised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to stop "pampering" and begging players of Nigerian descent born abroad to represent the Super Eagles.
His comments come as the NFF continues its efforts to recruit
talents like Michael Kayode, Tosin Adarabioyo, Caleb Okoli, and Kingsley
Ehizibue for the senior national team.
Speaking with Brila FM, the former West Bromwich Albion
forward emphasized that the Super Eagles are a prestigious team that should
attract talent naturally rather than through solicitation.
"These days, it’s like they want the pampering. Me as
you know, I don’t need no pampering. If Naija pampers me, it’s more than enough
for me," Osaze stated.
Reflecting on his own journey and mixed heritage, Odemwingie
noted that while he loves Russia, his footballing connection has always been
with Nigeria. He expressed concern over the loss of Nigerian talent to European
nations, remarking, "It’s Nigerian genes that are showing themselves. How
Nigeria go win World Cup when our talents go out to serve other people?"
Odemwingie also touched on the technical differences between
players developed in Nigeria versus those raised in European academies.
"Europeans regardless where they are from, right from
childhood, they are mechanical. They are like robots, they are wired to do this
job tactically sound and keeping it simple," he noted. He expressed hope
that one day the trend would reverse, with top-tier players eager to choose
Nigeria to help bring the World Cup trophy home.
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