Shehu Dikko, Chairman of Nigeria’s National Sports Commission (NSC), says the country is still waiting for FIFA’s verdict on its petition against DR Congo over player eligibility in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers, with the Super Eagles’ hopes of reaching the tournament hanging in the balance.
Dikko stressed that Nigeria has submitted its case which argues that several DR Congo players were improperly cleared due to domestic nationality law conflicts and must now wait for the world governing body to make a final decision.
The petition follows the Super Eagles’ dramatic playoff loss to DR Congo in November 2025, where Nigeria were beaten on penalties after a 1-1 draw, a result that initially ended their qualification bid. However, the appeal could potentially reopen Nigeria’s path to the intercontinental play-offs if ruled in their favour.
Dikko noted that submitting the complaint was necessary “to ensure that established rules are respected” and that both the federation and the national commission have provided all relevant documentation as required by FIFA’s eligibility rules. He reminded Nigerians that decisions in such cases involve careful review and cannot be rushed.
A FIFA ruling was expected around mid-February 2026, prompting widespread anticipation among supporters and officials, and discussions remain underway about further avenues such as escalation to the Court of Arbitration for Sport should the verdict not go Nigeria’s way.
Editorial
Nigeria’s appeal to FIFA over DR Congo’s alleged use of ineligible players represents one of the most significant off-field episodes in recent Super Eagles history. The nation’s football community remains in suspense, balancing hope of a reinstated qualification route with the reality that FIFA’s complex rules on sporting nationality which often defer to documentation rather than local law make outcomes uncertain.
Dikko’s measured reaction underscores the procedural nature of such petitions. While the Super Eagles’ fans yearn for a breakthrough that could take Nigeria back into the World Cup race, it’s also a reminder that football governance often involves nuanced legal interpretation. Whether the petition succeeds or not, this episode highlights how eligibility disputes can profoundly impact a country’s tournament ambitions.
Amid the waiting period, focus for many Nigerian supporters has shifted back to performance on the pitch and future competitions, even as social media buzzes with both optimism and scepticism about the eventual FIFA ruling. Regardless of the outcome, the federation’s decision to pursue its appeal reflects a commitment to due process and the hope of rekindling World Cup dreams.
Did You Know?
- Nigeria filed its FIFA petition in December 2025, challenging DR Congo’s player eligibility after the playoff loss.
- The Super Eagles were eliminated from qualifying after losing 4–3 on penalties to DR Congo in the playoff final.
- FIFA’s eligibility rules focus on documentation and sporting nationality rather than domestic citizenship law.
- Shehu Dikko suggested that if FIFA’s verdict is unfavourable, the case could be taken to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
- A favourable FIFA ruling could reinstate Nigeria into the intercontinental playoff for a final chance to reach the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico.
