Former Super Eagles forward Peter Osaze Odemwingie has praised interim Nigeria manager Austin Eguavoen for his commitment and passion for Nigerian football.
Eguavoen assumed the role of caretaker coach of the Super Eagles after Finidi George's resignation in June and has since overseen Nigeria's AFCON 2025 qualifiers, accumulating 7 points from 3 matches to lead Group D.
Recognising Eguavoen’s impressive track record and current success, Odemwingie stressed the invaluable role he plays in shaping the future of the national team.
Odemwingie lauds Eguavoen's Super Eagles stewardship
In a recent interview with Brila, Odemwingie expressed his admiration for Eguavoen, reflecting on the 59-year-old's influential role in his career and emphasising the positive impact he continues to have on Nigerian football.
“Eguavoen was the general manager when I signed my first professional contract with Bendel Insurance under him.
“The beauty with him is that he’s a lesson to our country. He’s well-spoken, he was a committed player, and now he’s a committed coach. He’s always available and takes the job with passion—it’s his life.”
The former Lille and Stoke City attacker also acknowledged Eguavoen's output in his current interim capacity with the Super Eagles, stating that the former Nigeria captain should have the right of first refusal for the job on a full-time basis.
“He has a role to play, and he’s always been reliable. Right now, he’s doing well with 7 points in 3 games. It depends on what he is happy with.
“I wish him all the best in his role. What he wants is also important—if he wants it permanent and he makes it known to the public, then he has plans, and obviously he will put forward his plans to the NFF.
“If they think it aligns with their vision, then he can have it permanently. He’s done well in the past and is still doing well now. I wish him all the best.”
