Former Nigerian international Segun Odegbami has stressed that Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is critical, not only for footballing glory but also to give Africa a stronger voice on the global stage.
Speaking during a lecture on the Role of Sports in Global Geo-Politics, Odegbami argued that sport remains a powerful tool capable of countering the influence of global superpowers and positioning Africa as an equal player in world affairs.
“It is very important for the Super Eagles to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, so that Africa will have a voice,” Odegbami said. “Over to you, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, William Troost-Ekong, Stanley Nwabali, Tolu Arokodare, Moses Simon, Ola Aina, Tobi Amusan, Anthony Joshua, Ese Brume, and the rest.”
He noted that African athletes continue to make major contributions to the $2 trillion global sports economy, yet the continent remains sidelined in international decision-making. According to him, African nations must unite through sports to confront injustice and demand equality.
“Africa must come as a superpower of a different kind too,” he said. “At the World Cup, we must all celebrate the freedom and equality of all humanity. The continent must rise with one voice to confront such injustice at the table of civilisations in this new world order.”
Odegbami, fondly nicknamed Mathematical during his playing days for his precision and flair, represented Nigeria 47 times between 1976 and 1981 before retiring from international football.
His remarks come at a critical moment for Nigeria, whose qualification hopes for the 2026 World Cup hang in the balance. The Super Eagles were held 1-1 by South Africa in Bloemfontein on September 9, a result that left them three points adrift of the qualification spots in Group C.
FIFA’s recent sanction against South Africa for fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho has, however, shifted the group standings. Bafana Bafana, deducted three points and three goals, now sit on 14 points — second behind leaders Benin Republic. Nigeria remain on 11 points, level with Rwanda, with two matches left to play.
The Super Eagles will next face Lesotho on October 10 before a decisive clash against Benin Republic four days later.
