Former Super Eagles midfielder Oladimeji Lawal has challenged John Obi Mikel to go beyond criticism and become part of the solution to the challenges confronting Nigerian football, insisting that former players with vast international experience have a responsibility to contribute positively to the game’s development.
Lawal’s remarks come after Mikel made a series of public comments questioning the state of football administration in Nigeria and explaining why he has been reluctant to take up an official role within the country’s football structure. The former Chelsea midfielder has repeatedly expressed frustration over poor governance, inadequate planning and a lack of professionalism, arguing that these issues continue to hinder the progress of Nigerian football.
Speaking on the matter, Lawal acknowledged that Mikel has every right to express his views, given his successful playing career and achievements with both club and country. However, he maintained that criticism alone would not solve the deep-rooted problems facing the sport.
According to the former Shooting Stars General Manager, individuals who have enjoyed successful careers in football possess valuable knowledge and experience that should be invested in improving the system rather than focusing solely on its shortcomings.
Lawal stressed that constructive engagement is more beneficial than repeated public condemnation, especially from respected figures whose opinions carry significant weight among football supporters and administrators alike.
The former international noted that Nigeria’s football ecosystem requires collaboration among stakeholders, including former players, administrators, coaches and government agencies, if meaningful progress is to be achieved.
He argued that ex-players who have competed at the highest level understand the standards required for success and should be willing to share ideas capable of improving youth development, coaching structures and administrative practices.
Lawal also pointed out that rebuilding confidence in Nigerian football demands patience and sustained commitment from everyone connected to the game. While acknowledging existing shortcomings, he insisted that lasting reforms would only emerge through dialogue and active participation.
Mikel has become one of the most outspoken former Nigerian internationals in recent years. Since retiring from international football, the UEFA Champions League winner has frequently discussed issues affecting the Super Eagles and the domestic football system through interviews and his podcast.
The former midfielder has argued that many retired footballers remain excluded from decision making despite possessing the expertise needed to modernise the game. He has also suggested that systemic issues have discouraged several former internationals from accepting official appointments within Nigerian football.
Lawal, however, believes that disengagement is not the answer.
He said experienced football personalities should continue to offer recommendations and support efforts aimed at transforming the sport, regardless of the obstacles they encounter.
According to him, constructive criticism backed by practical proposals is more likely to influence positive change than constant public complaints.
The discussion comes at a time when Nigerian football is facing renewed scrutiny following recent disappointments on the international stage. The Super Eagles have endured inconsistent performances in major competitions, prompting widespread calls for reforms across coaching, player development and football administration.
Football stakeholders have continued to debate how best to reposition the country’s football system and restore Nigeria’s status among Africa’s leading football nations.
Many observers believe stronger grassroots programmes, improved league administration, better funding and increased transparency are essential to achieving sustainable success.
Lawal shares that view, insisting that rebuilding Nigerian football requires collective responsibility rather than blame.
He urged former players to use their influence to mentor younger footballers, support developmental initiatives and work alongside football authorities whenever opportunities arise.
The former midfielder also emphasised that Nigerian football has produced numerous talented individuals capable of making meaningful contributions off the pitch, provided they are willing to engage constructively.
While opinions remain divided over Mikel’s outspoken approach, the conversation has once again highlighted growing concerns about the future direction of Nigerian football.
As debates continue, both Lawal and Mikel appear united on one point: Nigerian football possesses enormous potential. Where they differ is in the approach to achieving lasting improvement, with Lawal advocating greater collaboration and solution driven engagement, while Mikel continues to demand far reaching reforms before committing to a formal role.
For Nigerian football supporters, the exchange underscores a broader challenge facing the sport: translating honest criticism into practical action capable of delivering the long awaited transformation many fans believe the game desperately needs.
