Former Nigeria winger Tijani Babangida has issued a strong warning. He urged Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle to reduce the team’s reliance on star striker Victor Osimhen. Babangida calls this dependency “dangerous.” His advice comes as Nigeria prepares for its quest for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title.

Speaking to Tribal Football, Babangida highlighted the risk. He noted the national team’s growing habit of placing all hopes on one player. This strategy is especially perilous with AFCON 2025 drawing near.

The Osimhen Factor: Stats and Impact

Osimhen’s influence on the Super Eagles is undeniable. The prolific forward has scored 31 goals in 43 matches for Nigeria. He is now just six goals away from matching Rashidi Yekini’s legendary record.

Despite these impressive numbers, Babangida sees a significant problem. He points to the team’s record both with and without Osimhen. When Osimhen plays, Nigeria has lost only five of their last 40 games. Without him, they faced 11 defeats in 29 matches, securing only nine victories.

This issue became very clear during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Osimhen’s absence led to a poor run for the Super Eagles. They failed to win their first four matches, recording three draws and one loss.

His return quickly changed the team’s morale. Osimhen scored six goals in the final six qualifiers. Nigeria then earned 14 points out of a possible 18. His performance rekindled hope among fans. However, the Super Eagles still finished behind South Africa for automatic qualification.

Osimhen again proved crucial in the playoffs. He scored twice in an extra-time win against Gabon. Sadly, he picked up an injury in the final match. After he left the field, DR Congo gained control. They eventually won the game on penalties. This defeat still highlights how much the team relies on him.

Babangida’s Message to Coach Chelle

“It is dangerous that the Super Eagles seem built around Victor Osimhen,” Babangida stated. “When he was substituted early in the second half against Congo, the team struggled. This is a very serious issue.”

He recalled his own playing days. “The Super Eagles of my era was not centered on one player,” he added. “Many observers note that this current team relies heavily on Osimhen. Coach Eric Chelle must address this problem to win the AFCON.”

Babangida stressed the need for a new mindset. “Chelle must instill this mentality in all players, especially the attackers. The team is not just about Osimhen. Any player selected must perform well and play as a cohesive unit.”

Babangida also warned that ambition alone is insufficient. Other players must be ready to step up, he added.

“We certainly need a fully fit Osimhen,” he affirmed. “However, we also need players who are mentally prepared. They must believe the Super Eagles can win, with or without him. Team morale should remain high, regardless of Osimhen’s presence.”

He recalled the World Cup qualifiers. “Osimhen missed most of the games where the team failed to secure wins. The Super Eagles should not crumble if Osimhen gets injured. Coach Chelle must tackle this issue. Injuries are part of football. Osimhen’s absence should not mean the end of the world for the Super Eagles.”

Preparing for AFCON 2025

Nigeria is set to kick off its AFCON campaign on December 23. Their first match is against Tanzania. Tunisia and Uganda are also in Group C. The team will begin its training camp in Egypt this weekend. Osimhen is expected to be among the first players to report for duty.