Former Nigeria international Garba Lawal has urged Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle and the Nigeria Football Federation to make qualification for the 2030 FIFA World Cup their overriding priority, insisting the country cannot afford to miss football's biggest tournament for a third consecutive time.
Lawal, a member of Nigeria's squad that reached the Round of 16 at the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France, said securing a place at the global showpiece must take precedence over every other objective, stressing that the Super Eagles belong among the world's elite.
"World Cup qualification must be our top priority. Nigeria cannot afford to miss another edition because the country belongs on that stage," Lawal said.
The former Super Eagles midfielder also welcomed the Nigeria Football Federation's decision to retain Chelle beyond the 2026 FIFA World Cup cycle, describing it as a crucial move that will give the Franco-Malian coach the stability needed to implement his long-term vision for the national team.
According to Lawal, continuity on the bench will allow Chelle to build a competitive squad capable of restoring Nigeria's place among the world's leading football nations while laying a solid foundation for sustained success.
