![[WATCH]: Nigerian student body protest appointment of Eric Chelle as Super Eagles coach](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/08012025/e4f517bf-ac06-4b96-844d-c9147fd7dbee.jpg?operations=fit(480:))
Negative reactions continue to follow the appointment of the Super Eagles’s first-ever non-Nigerian African coach, with the latest coming from the Nigerian students.
The former Mali international takes over from the interim coach Austin Eguaveon, who was tasked with helping the team to qualify for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco after Finidi George's short stint.
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Chelle, 47, previously managed several clubs in France and, most notably, the Mali national team, leading them to the quarterfinal of the last AFCON in Ivory Coast.
However, the decision to appoint the Malian is not a popular one among Nigerians who feel he is below the required level of quality.
‘A slap in the face of our nation’ – National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)
The latest sect to express their displeasure is the revered Nigerian students body, who took to the street to protest the appointment.
Speaking to one of Nigeria’s media houses, TVC, the NANS spokesperson said: “We wish to categorically express our displeasure over the appointment of Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles.
“This appointment as announced by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is not only unacceptable but also a slap in the face of our nation.
“Consequently, Nans, as the voice of the Nigerian students, is compelled to organise a national protest to demand a reversal of this decision.
“Let us not forget the underwhelming performance of the Malian national team at the 2024 African Cup of Nations.
“What inspires the NFF's confidence in a coach whose past performance raises more questions than answers?
More reactions continue to pour in from various quarters.
However, Chelle is still expected to resume his post as the Super Eagles head coach, with his first point of call being the World Cup qualifying games in March.
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