Chief Executive Officer of Ahudiyannem FC, Dr Robert Onyeani, has called on critical stakeholders in Nigerian football to put aside their differences and unite in the interest of the country’s football development.

Onyeani’s call comes in the wake of the recent setbacks suffered by the Super Falcons and the Super Eagles in their quests to qualify for the World Cup, as the Nigeria Football Federation approaches another election that has generated controversy in some quarters.

The Abia-based football administrator said Nigerian football needs unity, collective responsibility and a clear sense of purpose if the country is to reclaim its place on the global football map.

Onyeani said Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the last FIFA World Cup was a major blow to the country’s footballing reputation, describing it as a painful experience that should serve as a wake-up call to everyone involved in the administration and development of the game.

“Nigerian football stakeholders must come together in unity and bring our football to a greater state once again. There is no need for disagreement because, at the end of the day, it is football that suffers.”

Ahead of the NFF election billed for September 27 in Katsina, the Ahudiyannem FC boss believes some of Nigeria’s football challenges can be addressed by bringing experienced administrators, club owners, coaches, former players and other stakeholders together to develop a common roadmap for the future.

He also stressed the importance of talent discovery, courage and the willingness to take calculated risks, particularly in the development of the Super Falcons.

According to Onyeani, Nigeria has enormous football talent at the grassroots, but discovering these talents is only the beginning. The country must also create the right structures to nurture them, provide opportunities and have the courage to trust emerging players when the situation demands it.

Onyeani’s experience with Ahudiyannem FC reflects his commitment to grassroots football. The Abia-based club made national headlines after winning the 2025 Abia State FA Cup, defeating established professional sides, including Abia Warriors and Enyimba FC, on its way to the title.

The success of a grassroots club against established opposition, he noted, demonstrates that Nigeria possesses abundant football talent outside the traditional football centres.

He therefore urged stakeholders to use the current challenges facing Nigerian football as an opportunity to rebuild rather than deepen divisions.

“We must put Nigerian football first. When we disagree among ourselves, it is the players, the clubs and the entire football system that suffer. Unity is what we need to move Nigerian football forward again,” Onyeani added.