Former captain Sunday Oliseh has been unveiled as the replacement for sacked national football coach Stephen Keshi by the Nigeria Football Federation.
The 40-year-old former midfielder has signed a contract to coach the Super Eagles at least until 2020, making him the fifth player from the famous ‘class of 1994’ to take the helm following Austin Eguavoen, Samson Siasia, Daniel Amokachi and Keshi.
Oliseh earned 63 caps for Nigeria, along the way helping the Super Eagles win the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and Olympic gold in 1996. But he takes charge at a time when Nigeria are struggling on and off the field.
“This is the biggest job in African football. With everyone’s support we can get the Super Eagles flying again,” he told reporters, adding: “Gone are the days when we had individual players who can win games on their own. But we have potential.”
Oliseh has little management experience, having coached only Belgian lower league side Vervietois between 2008 and 2009. He has, however, earned the UEFA Pro Licence and the Nigeria Football Federation have every faith he can handle the challenge of coaching the Super Eagles.
“Oliseh has all the necessary knowledge and exposure we’re looking for to take the country’s football to a great height,” said NFF president Amaju Pinnick.
“He shares our vision, received the approval of our sports ministry, the blessings of the NFF technical committee and executive board.”
Oliseh, who will be assisted by Belgian coach Jean Francois Losciuto, will immediately begin the task of preparing the Super Eagles for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier away to Tanzania in the first week of September, as well as an international friendly days later.
“There is no time to waste. The team has important matches in the next few weeks and it is imperative that Oliseh starts work immediately,” NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi said.
