Peter Obi Alleges Political Blockade After Women's World Cup Win
Peter Obi claims Nigeria Football Federation officials blocked him from greeting the Under-17 women's national team, sparking a dispute over the politicization of sports.
Presidential candidate Peter Obi alleged that officials from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) prevented him from greeting the Under-17 women's national football team, the Flamingos, at an Abuja airport on November 9, 2026. The team had just arrived from Morocco after winning the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. Obi claimed his protocol officer was told that NFF officials feared losing their jobs if they permitted the encounter, characterizing the incident as evidence of a culture of "toxic politics."
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo responded by accusing Obi of hypocrisy, questioning why a critic of the current administration would seek a "photo op" with a national success story. The National Sports Commission (NSC) also strongly rejected the claims. NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director-General Bukola Olopade stated that Obi was not seen near the international terminal and that a request for photographs from individuals in campaign attire was declined to protect the welfare of the tired players.
Obi linked the event to a similar occurrence in March 2025 in Uyo during a World Cup qualifying match. The NSC disputed this recollection, asserting that no dignitaries were permitted in the dressing room during that event. While the Presidency and NSC condemned the politicization of sports, the NFF has not yet issued a public response.
