The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Anthony Adeyinka Adeboye, has assured Nigerians that the Super Eagles are still firmly in contention for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, urging the nation to keep faith with the team as they enter the decisive stage of the qualification series.

Speaking against the backdrop of CAF’s updated standings, which place Nigeria close behind Gabon and Cameroon in the race for the top second-placed teams, Adeboye emphasized that the Eagles still have everything to play for.

“This team is not done yet,” he said confidently. “The Super Eagles have shown resilience before, and they will show it again. Nigeria’s qualification story is not over — far from it. We are still in the fight, and I believe this team will rise to the occasion.”

Nigeria currently sits on 15 points with a +7 goal difference, just behind the leaders in the new CAF calculation system following the withdrawal of Eritrea. Only group winners are guaranteed automatic qualification for the World Cup in North America, while second-placed teams will battle for a final playoff spot in Morocco next month.

Adeboye commended the players and technical crew for their focus and determination, stressing that they represent the strength and pride of over 200 million Nigerians.

“Our boys are carrying the hopes of the nation. What they need most right now is our support, belief, and prayers. This is the time for unity — the time to rally behind the team as one Nigeria,” he said.

The presidential aide also reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s continued commitment to developing sports at all levels, adding that grassroots investment remains key to sustaining Nigeria’s dominance across the continent.

With the Super Eagles determined to rewrite their destiny, Adeboye’s message serves as a powerful reminder that — for Nigeria — hope is far from lost, and glory may yet lie just ahead.