The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially announced Éric Sékou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team.
The appointment was confirmed during the NFF Executive Committee meeting held on January 7, 2025, in Abuja.
Chelle’s selection was based on recommendations from the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee during a prior meeting on January 2.
Chelle, 47, brings extensive experience to the role. A former head coach of Mali’s national football team, he has also managed several clubs, including GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran.
His playing career in France saw him feature for clubs like Valenciennes, Lens, and Istres. Internationally, Chelle chose to represent Mali, earning five caps before retiring.
As Mali’s coach between 2022 and 2024, Chelle guided the team to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire.
Under his leadership, Mali achieved notable success, recording 14 wins, five draws, and three losses. His tenure ended in 2024, but he left a lasting impression with Mali’s strong AFCON performance.
Chelle takes over from Finidi George, who resigned after disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. His immediate challenge is to lead Nigeria to secure a World Cup spot, with critical qualifiers set for March.
