Former Nigeria Football Federation president Amaju Pinnick has attributed the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in part to changes in the qualifying format, arguing that the previous system would have favoured Nigeria’s chances.

Speaking at the Big Sport Dialogue in Ikoyi, Pinnick told critics he did not preside over clear defeats and that structural changes to qualification worked against the national team. He maintained that, under the 2018 model, Nigeria could have navigated a tougher group and still secured passage to the World Cup.

Facing pointed questions about his stewardship and Nigeria’s recent misses, Pinnick pointed to notable achievements during his tenure — including high-profile wins against Argentina and Poland — and highlighted wider gains such as increased Nigerian representation across CAF and FIFA committees.

Pinnick also referenced his role in negotiating the design of Nigeria’s current national-team jersey with Nike and defended some institutional gains as understated but important. While he welcomed scrutiny, he argued Nigerians should balance criticism with recognition of progress.

He said his current role as vice president of the committee for the 2026 World Cup places him in a vital position for Africa’s interests — even as Nigeria misses out on the tournament — and urged the football community to emphasise achievements rather than dwelling only on failures.