Nigeria forward Akor Adams has called for a fundamental reset in Nigerian football, urging stakeholders to move beyond regret and take collective responsibility following the Nigeria national football team’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking via La Liga, the Sevilla FC striker stressed that rebuilding the national team cannot be delayed, describing preparation as a continuous process that must begin immediately—both on and off the pitch.
“The focus has to shift from disappointment to responsibility,” Adams said, warning that postponing reform would only deepen the consequences for Nigerian football. He added that another failure to reach the World Cup—this time in 2030—would carry serious implications for the country’s football identity.
Nigeria’s absence from the 2026 tournament adds to a troubling pattern. Despite being one of Africa’s most reputable football nations, the Super Eagles have now failed to qualify for back-to-back FIFA World Cups (2022 and 2026), with the most recent setback intensifying scrutiny of long-standing structural and administrative issues within the game.
Adams, however, insisted that the players are determined to restore trust and credibility.
“The players are motivated to make sure we do not disappoint Nigerians again,” he said. “Another missed World Cup would take a very big toll on Nigerian football.”
Since making his senior debut, the 24-year-old has made a strong impression, scoring five goals in twelve appearances for Nigeria, including three at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
While emphasising player commitment, Adams was clear that responsibility extends beyond the dressing room.
He noted that meaningful progress depends on alignment, pointing to the need for cohesion between the technical crew, the squad and the Nigeria Football Federation. According to the striker, without unified planning and decision-making, sustained success will remain elusive.
Despite the disappointment of missing out on 2026, Adams believes there is a practical pathway forward. He views the upcoming Unity Cup in London as an important first step, with Nigeria set to face Jamaica, India and Zimbabwe.
“The Unity Cup is an opportunity,” Adams said. “It’s a chance to rebuild confidence, reset the culture and start preparing properly for what comes next.”
