NSC DG Olopade Dismisses Chelle Exit Talk, Backs Super Eagles Stars Amid Oliseh Criticism

Director General of Nigeria’s National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has played down speculation linking Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle with a move away from Nigeria, insisting the Malian tactician is not considering any exit despite reported interest from Tunisia, Gabon and Angola.

Chelle’s stock has risen sharply since leading Nigeria to a bronze medal finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. With less than a year left on his contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), rumours of interest from other African nations have gathered pace.

Olopade, however, has been unequivocal in his response, arguing that Chelle’s success has been built on the quality available to him in Nigeria.

“Eric Chelle is not going anywhere. The countries claiming interest in him don’t have the kind of superstars that make his job easier,” Olopade said.

“We must not forget that Eric thrived because he had the right equipment and instruments, the quality personnel he used to execute his ideas.”

The NSC boss revealed that discussions are already ongoing behind the scenes to ensure stability around the national team setup.

“I had dinner with him two days ago at my house in Abuja. I’m not the NFF President, but we operate with a collaborative approach, and Eric Chelle has become both a brother and a friend,” Olopade told Footy-Africa.

“That same night, I called the NFF president, and hopefully by Tuesday or Wednesday, we’ll all sit down together.”

In the same breath, Olopade also addressed comments made by former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh, who recently criticised Victor Osimhen’s behaviour during Nigeria’s AFCON semi-final loss to Morocco. Oliseh also questioned the players’ celebrations after securing third place, describing it as a reflection of “mediocrity”.

Olopade made it clear he does not share that view.

“I disagree with Oliseh on many of his comments, including his indictment of Osimhen and others,” he said.

“Our superstars of yesterday deserve respect, but they must also take their place as mentors to the younger generation, not denigrate them.”