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Former Nigerian international Segun Odegbami has stressed that Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup is crucial for giving Africa a stronger voice on the global stage.
Speaking on the “Role of Sports in Global Geo-Politics,” Odegbami argued that sport has the power to challenge the geopolitical dominance of superpowers and secure Africa a seat at the negotiation table in a new world order.
“It is very important for the Super Eagles to qualify for the 2026 World Cup so that Africa will have a voice. So, 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,” the former winger said.
He noted that Africa has significant investments in the global sports economy, worth over $2 trillion, and that African athletes have consistently brought recognition to the continent through their performances in international competitions.
Odegbami urged African nations to speak with one voice to promote equality and challenge injustice in global sport.
“Africa must also emerge as a superpower of a different kind,” he declared. “If that happens, no one will question the relevance of sport in geopolitics or doubt that the economic benefits of the World Cup can impact local livelihoods.
“Africa, led once again by Nigeria, must be prepared to revisit the powerful geopolitical alliance of 1976 if necessary and make a global statement that the World Cup must celebrate the freedom and equality of all humanity. The continent must rise in unity to confront injustice at the table of civilisations in this emerging world order.”
Odegbami, nicknamed Mathematical for his precision and skill, retired from international football in 1981 after earning 47 caps for Nigeria between 1976 and 1981.
Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup suffered a setback after they failed to secure maximum points against South Africa in Bloemfontein on September 9, 2025.
With two matches remaining, the Super Eagles sit four points behind Group C leaders Benin Republic and three points behind South Africa, who were sanctioned for fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho.
FIFA deducted three points and three goals from Bafana Bafana, leaving them on 14 points, second behind Benin Republic, while Nigeria and Rwanda are tied on 11 points.
The Super Eagles will face Lesotho on October 10 and Benin Republic four days later in crucial qualifying fixtures.
