Support sports - Super Eagles legend Jay Jay Okocha begs Nigerian leaders, politicians for investment

Nigerian football legend and former Super Eagles captain, Austin "Jay Jay" Okocha, has made a heartfelt appeal to Nigerian leaders and politicians to increase their investment in sports across the country-not just football.

Speaking in a recent interview with Sports Boom, Okocha emphasised the urgent need for better infrastructure and broader support for all sports disciplines in Nigeria.

Okocha, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest footballers and a three-time FIFA World Cup participant, stressed that while there has been some government support, it falls short of what is needed to unlock the full potential of Nigerian athletes.

He said, “Support sports-not just football. Provide good infrastructure so players can maximise their potentials.”

“Governments have been helping, but they can do more,” the former Premier League midfielder at Bolton added.

His call states the critical role that investment and proper management play in nurturing talent and elevating Nigeria’s status in the global sports arena.

Beyond his plea for enhanced sports development, Okocha also shared his thoughts on the current state of the Super Eagles as they navigate the challenging 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Despite a shaky start and Nigeria’s position in fourth place in their qualifying group, Okocha remains optimistic. He believes the team can still qualify if they win their remaining matches, including tough fixtures against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana.

As reported by Pulse Sports, the 51-year-old says that the Eagles under Eric Chelle still has a chance to pick a ticket, even if through the playoffs.

Okocha’s concerns about Nigerian football go beyond the national team’s performance. He has been vocal about the structural deficiencies in Nigerian football, particularly the lack of adequate facilities and professional coaching, which he believes hinder the development of young talents.

As a former captain and one of Africa’s most skillful midfielders, Okocha’s voice carries weight in Nigerian sports circles.

His legacy, built on dazzling performances for clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Bolton Wanderers, as well as his leadership of the Super Eagles, gives him a unique perspective on what Nigerian sports need to thrive.

His call to action is a reminder that beyond the passion Nigerians have for sports, strategic investment and support from leaders are essential to translate that passion into international success and opportunities for future generations.

In summary, Jay Jay Okocha’s message is clear: Nigerian leaders can and must do more to support sports infrastructure, management, and youth development.

Only then can Nigeria fully harness its vast pool of athletic talent and regain its position as a powerhouse in African and global sports.