The Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee to appoint Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle as the Head Coach of Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team, the Super Eagles.
The decision was made during the NFF Executive Committee meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday, 7th January 2025, following the sub-committee’s recommendation on Thursday, 2nd January.
Chelle, a former coach of Mali’s senior men’s national team, brings vast experience to the role. He earned five caps as a player for the Aiglons of Mali and has previously coached clubs such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran. Since 2022, he has been the Head Coach of Mali’s national team.
At the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire, Chelle’s Mali team narrowly missed reaching the semi-finals, losing 2-1 to the hosts and eventual winners after extra time. Mali had led by a lone goal until the final minute of regulation time.
The 47-year-old Chelle also enjoyed a distinguished playing career in France, representing clubs such as Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais.
His appointment takes immediate effect, with the critical task of leading the Super Eagles to secure a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals. The next qualifying matches, Matchdays 5 and 6, are scheduled for March.