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Eguavoen’s Tough Call
Eguavoen’s Tough Call
by Patrick Omorodion
Albert Nelson, better known by his stage name Albert King, was an American left-handed guitarist and singer regarded as one of the greatest and most influential blues guitarists of all time. He died of heart attack in 1992.
He sang a popular song, ‘Everybody wants to go to heaven’ with lines like this, ‘Everybody wants to laugh. Ah, but nobody wants to cry. Everybody want to hear the truth but yet, everybody wants to tell a lie. Everybody wants to go to heaven. But nobody wants to die’.
This is the truth about human beings. They want better things which comes with saying it the way it is, but they are afraid to lead the way. Talk about belling the proverbial cat, it is being brave enough to do something that will be good for a group that you are part of, but is dangerous or difficult.
Everybody seems to agree that we’ve got to bell the cat, but no one wants to step forward and volunteer to lead.
For many years, Nigerian football coaches have been used and dumped by the Nigeria Football Federation, especially to fill the gap whenever the over pampered foreign coaches they hire throw their jobs back at their faces.
Or when they feel done in by them after believing that they were the Messiah they needed to take Nigeria’s football to a level that their Nigerian counterparts could ever get to.
Name them, Festus Onigbinde, late Paul Hamilton, late Shaibu Amodu, late Stephen Keshi, Augustine Eguavoen, Sunday Oliseh and Samson Siasia. All of these coaches have been used as interim coaches whenever the football federation found it difficult in getting foreign coaches to handle the Super Eagles. None of them have ever been given a permanent contract even for a short period with good conditions like their foreign counterparts..
This is because these coaches are quick at accepting anything thrown at them just to answer the name ‘Super Eagles Coach’. They never get to sit with the NFF to discuss the conditions of service.
However, when they are owed salary or dumped unceremoniously, they run to the media to cry about the injustice meted to them by the NFF.
It is however, a surprise that Eguavoen has come out to spell out the conditions under which he will accept to handle the national team on a permanent basis if approached with the offer.
No one can stop me anymore, says Humblesmith, releases ‘Sochi ‘
As the technical director of the federation, he was drafted to handle the team when the NFF’s attempt to hire Bruno Labbadia after the exit of Jose Peseiro fell flat.
Eguavoen has already led the Eagles in two AFCON qualifiers, beating Gernot Rohr’s Benin Republic in Uyo and drawing with Rwanda in Kigali.
Coming after the disastrous outing of Finidi George in two 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic, Nigerians who were shocked by the shambolic display of the Super Eagles are beginning to sing Eguavoen’s praises, advocating a permanent deal for him.
The NFF who are still in a quandary over how to get a foreign coach, which is their priority, maybe thinking along that line especially as they may not have the scarce foreign exchange to hire one for now, considering the approach of the 2025 AFCON Finals.
This maybe the reason why Eguavoen, known for not wanting to rock the boat, may have chosen to bell the proverbial cat for the much undermined indigenous coaches for the first time.
While speaking with Brila FM recently, he hinted that he was not ready to jump at the offer of a permanent job without conditions like a long-term contract, patience and support to succeed at the job
Hear him: “If I were to switch permanently, it’s something I’d need to sit down, reflect and think deeply about because it’s not a small job. It will be a tough one. You have to give me long-term contract with patience and clauses in that contract because winning is not guaranteed every week or day. You will give me time to tweak the team till I find what I want.”
He wants to be given a long contract like the foreign coaches get, which will allow him plan a workable strategy to succeed.
He said, “In 2006, I was there for six months, every other time it was two months, two games or three games. Clemens Westerhof was in charge between 1989 and 1994, (Gernot) Rohr was there for six years. They got some
time. I never got straight two years.”
This is a very tough call he is making to the NFF. It’s going to be a choice that may be very difficult for the Ibrahim Gusau-led Board to make, knowing their lack of confidence in indigenous coaches.
If Senegal damned foreign coaches and gave their own, Aliou Cisse the support for nine years and he succeeded before he was shoved aside recenly, then the NFF should for once give it a try with our local coaches too.
It is high time the NFF stopped pandering to criticisms from fans and the media to make decisions on local coaches. They should know that what is good for the goose should equally be good for the gander. The same support, good salary and a good contract the foreign coaches get should be given to indigenous coaches too.
Kudos to Eguavoen for finally stepping up to bell the cat with his tough call on the NFF.
N.B. Next week, I will celebrate an avid reader of this Column and Sunday Vanguard, a great Nigerian, a nonagenarian, boardroom guru and a sports man in his school days, Dr. Michael Olawale Omolayole who turns 96 that day. Congratulations in advance sir.
By: Professor Ben Binebai
In the realm of Nigerian leadership, one name resonates with mythical significance – High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, affectionately known as Tompolo. Born on 12 April 1971, in Warri, Delta State, Tompolo has etched his name in the annals of history, leaving an indelible mark on the Niger Delta region. As a former militant commander of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) and chief priest of the Egbesu deity, he has navigated the treacherous waters of war and peace, leveraging his remarkable journey to bring succour and development to his people.
Tompolo’s metamorphosis from a militant leader to a peace advocate is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the progress of the Niger Delta. His decision to embrace the Amnesty Programme in 2009 marked a turning point, as he laid down arms and picked up the mantle of transformation. Today, he is revered as a hero, celebrated for taming the turbulent waters of the Creek boys and settling major political crises in the region. By putting the Ijaw image on the Nigerian map, Tompolo has redefined the narrative, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and resilience of the Ijaw people to the world.
A nationalist and statesman emerging from the boiling pot of agitation in the Niger Delta, Tompolo has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the development and progress of his people. His agency operates in close collaboration with the government, working tirelessly to implement projects and initiatives that benefit the Niger Delta region. His leadership style is characterised by quiet strength, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to the progress of his people. His efforts have earned him recognition and accolades from various quarters, solidifying his position as a dependable pillar of the Ijaw nation.
As the last voice of the Ijaw nation, Tompolo’s legacy continues to inspire hope and progress for generations to come. With institutions established for national economic stability and prosperity, his impact will be felt for years to come. Tompolo’s story serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring his people to strive for greatness.
God bless this emergent leader of the Ijaw nation.
By: Ben Binebai
In the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, a city cries out for peace, justice, and unity. Warri, a land of rich cultural heritage and economic significance, has been plagued by recurring crises, sparked by provocative actions and claims of ownership by the Itsekiri group. The cry of Warri is a call to action, a reminder that our diversity is a strength, not a weakness, and that our common humanity is worth fighting for.
The Ijaw, Urhobo, and Itsekiri communities have coexisted in Warri for centuries, sharing a rich cultural heritage and a deep connection to the land. Occasionally uniting but deeply disunited because power and hegemony have often overshadowed their shared humanity, the people of Warri yearn for a future where their differences are celebrated, and their commonalities are the foundation of their unity. Warri’s significance extends beyond its current boundaries, as it has been a hub of economic and cultural activity for centuries. Before 1952, Warri was a thriving commercial centre, with the Ijaw, Urhobo, and Itsekiri communities contributing to its growth and development.
The city’s strategic location and access to the Niger Delta’s vast resources made it an attractive location for trade and commerce. Understanding Warri’s rich history and cultural heritage is essential to finding a lasting solution to the crisis.
It is time for truth to prevail to offer a lasting solution to the Warri crisis. The canoe of godfatherism should be withdrawn for the rule of law and for peace and progress to triumph.
The lie of exclusive ownership of Warri resists termination due to several factors, including:
Outdated court judgments: The Itsekiri establishment continues to rely on outdated court judgments, such as the 1925 judgment, to support their claim of ownership, despite subsequent judgments repudiating its validity.
Lack of political will: Successive governments have failed to address the problem and take the right and just decision, allowing the crisis to persist.
Absolutist claims: The Itsekiri claim is absolutist, while the Urhobo and Ijaw claims are limited, recognising ownership of portions of Warri by other communities.
Historical narratives can be deeply ingrained*: People’s understanding of their history and identity can be shaped by long-standing narratives, making it hard to change their perspectives.
Emotions and biases can override facts: When emotions and biases are strongly tied to a particular narrative, people may resist changing their views, even in the face of contradictory evidence.
Power dynamics can influence narrative control: Those in positions of power may use their influence to shape and maintain certain narratives, making it harder to correct lies and misconceptions.
Moreover, leadership plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Warri. As the saying goes, “When leaders refuse to embrace sacrifice, society dies.” Leaders who prioritise the greater good, make tough decisions, and invest in the future can help build a more harmonious and prosperous society. It is time for the leaders of Warri to put the needs of their people first and work towards a brighter future.
The cry of Warri is a call to action, a reminder that our diversity is a strength, not a weakness. Let us work towards a brighter, more harmonious future, where the beauty of our differences is celebrated, and our common humanity is cherished. May the cry of Warri be heard, and may we rise to the challenge of building a better tomorrow for all its people.
In the realm of the Niger Delta, where the mighty rivers flow and the Atlantic Ocean’s waves crash against the shore, a legendary entity has emerged to safeguard the nation’s maritime interests. Tantita, a name synonymous with protection and vigilance, has become the embodiment of maritime and economic security in Nigeria.
Tantita’s significance extends far beyond its role as a mere maritime security agency. It is a power of hope, a shining example of Nigeria’s determination to protect its waters and harness its economic potential. With its unbending commitment to security and stability, Tantita has become the guardian of Nigeria’s maritime realm, ensuring the safe passage of vessels and the uninterrupted flow of commerce.
Tantita’s impact on Nigeria’s economy cannot be overstated. By protecting the nation’s maritime assets and preventing piracy, oil theft, and other illicit activities, Tantita has helped to safeguard the country’s economic lifeline. The agency’s efforts have ensured the continued flow of oil and gas revenues, which are vital to Nigeria’s economic well-being.
Its significance extends beyond the realm of economics. It is a symbol of national pride, a testament to Nigeria’s ability to protect its sovereignty and defend its interests. The agency’s personnel: Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, Chairman, Mathew Tonlagha, Vice Chairman, Chief Kestin Pondi, the Managing Director and Tare Pondi, General Manager Operations and Technical, are the unsung heroes of Nigeria’s maritime domain, working tirelessly to ensure the security and stability of the nation’s waters.
The federal government should disregard the evil cry of satanic forces against Tantita and instead, continue to support the agency’s efforts to protect Nigeria’s maritime interests. Tantita’s work is crucial to the nation’s economic survival, and any attempts to undermine its efforts would be detrimental to the country’s well-being.
As we celebrate Tantita’s significance, we must also acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. The agency requires continued support and resources to effectively discharge its mandate. We must rally behind Tantita, providing it with the necessary tools and equipment to carry out its duties. By doing so, we can ensure the continued security and stability of Nigeria’s maritime domain and pave the way for a brighter economic future.
I hold strongly, that Tantita is more than just a maritime security agency; it is a guardian of Nigeria’s economic interests, a symbol of national pride, and a legendary hope for the nation’s future. Its significance cannot be overstated, and its efforts will continue to shape Nigeria’s economic destiny.
Prof. BEN BINEBAI