Daniel Oyekan
Former Super Eagles defender Godfrey Oboabona has appealed to Nigerians to rally behind Victor Osimhen and the national team, stressing that the striker needs greater creative support and collective encouragement rather than criticism.
Oboabona, a 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner, spoke in defense of the Napoli forward amid growing scrutiny over his recent performances for the Super Eagles. The former centre-back emphasized that Osimhen’s work ethic and commitment on the pitch are unquestionable but noted that a lack of creativity in midfield has limited his goal-scoring chances.
“One thing I want people to understand is that a tree does not make a forest,” Oboabona said. “Osimhen is overworking himself. His attitude on the pitch for the Super Eagles is very solid. We just don’t have a creative midfielder who can create chances for him and make those penetrative passes. He’s doing his best as a striker.”
The former Sunshine Stars and Çaykur Rizespor defender called for patience and unity among fans, urging Nigerians to maintain their long-standing support for the national team regardless of temporary setbacks.
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“Whoever says Osimhen is not scoring enough for Nigeria should also understand the circumstances,” he added. “The same love and support fans have shown the Super Eagles when we were winning should continue. That spirit of belief is what the team needs right now.”
Oboabona, who made 39 international appearances and scored once for Nigeria, was part of the squad that lifted the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and featured at both the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Now retired from professional football, the 34-year-old remains an influential voice in Nigerian football, often speaking on the need for balance, discipline, and collective responsibility in the national setup.
As Nigeria prepares for crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, Oboabona’s message serves as a reminder that behind every great striker lies a team effort and that national success depends on shared belief both on and off the pitch.