FCT Minister Wike Voices Nigerians’ Frustration Over Super Eagles’ World Cup Miss
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, expressed disappointment on Wednesday that the Super Eagles failed to secure a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Kuje‑Gwagwalada Road in Abuja, Wike noted that former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo was among the dignitaries present.
He urged Yobo to convey the nation’s frustration to the current players, stating that many Nigerians remain unhappy about the team’s absence from the ongoing tournament.
“Before I leave, we have congratulated one of our stars, Joseph Yobo. But let me use this medium through you to tell the Super Eagles we are not happy,” Wike said.
He added that if nobody tells the players about the public’s disappointment, some people might continue to cheer them without understanding the sentiment.
Wike described the situation as painful, noting that he watches the World Cup and sees countries he had never heard of qualifying, while Nigeria—despite having at least 13 of its players plying their trade abroad—did not make the cut.
Addressing Yobo directly, the minister said, “Yobo, go and tell them we are not happy.”
Nigeria’s failure to qualify came after a disappointing CAF qualification campaign, culminating in a playoff loss to Congo on penalties.
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