Amuneke, Kanu Rally Behind Akwuegbu as NFF Race Takes a New Turn

The NFF presidency race appears to be taking a new turn, with Benedict Akwuegbu receiving warm backing from some of Nigeria’s most respected former internationals.

Legendary former Super Eagles player and coach Emmanuel Amuneke was delighted to receive Akwuegbu, describing the moment as an opportunity for capable hands to come together and help restore Nigerian football to its rightful place.

Amuneke also welcomed the opportunity to support one of his own, while calling for former internationals to unite and become a force capable of changing the narrative around Nigerian football.

The visit continued at the Imo State Football Association, where Barrister Ifeanyi Dike openly declared his support for Akwuegbu. Dike said his position was driven by his belief that Nigerian football needs a change in direction.

Then came another significant encounter with Nwankwo Kanu.

The former Super Eagles captain acknowledged Akwuegbu’s opportunity to make a difference at the highest level and spoke candidly about one of the long-standing challenges facing former internationals; the absence of unity.

Kanu was particularly pleased to see a fellow international step forward and contest for the leadership of Nigerian football. Following their lengthy interaction, he expressed surprise at how much Akwuegbu had developed beyond the player he once knew, particularly impressed by his presentation and the ideas he brought to the table.

Kanu subsequently offered his support, stressing that his arms were wide open to the journey. He acknowledged that the road could be long, but insisted that it was achievable.

What stood out throughout the meetings was the warmth surrounding Akwuegbu.

There was a sense of familiarity, brotherhood and genuine enthusiasm among the former internationals — men who once wore the same national colours and now appear increasingly conscious of the need to find common ground.

For Akwuegbu, the encounters were more than courtesy visits.

They offered a powerful glimpse of what could happen when former internationals begin to close ranks around a shared vision for Nigerian football.

The NFF race is still unfolding. But one thing is becoming increasingly difficult to miss: Akwuegbu’s journey is bringing former teammates and football figures into the conversation and this time, the call is for unity, experience and a different direction for the game.