Peter Obi Alleges NFF Officials Blocked Him from Greeting Nigeria U-17 Girls

Former Anambra State governor and 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has accused Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officials of blocking him from greeting members of Nigeria's Under-17 girls' team at an airport. Obi made the allegation in a statement posted on his X account on Monday. He claimed he arrived at the airport around 7 a.m. to catch a flight to Enugu when he spotted the national team preparing to leave.

Obi said he asked his Protocol Officer, Jackie Wayas, to arrange a meeting with the players, but NFF officials rejected his request. They reportedly warned that allowing him to approach the players could cost them their jobs. Obi described the incident as another example of growing political intolerance in Nigeria. He recalled a similar incident on March 25, 2025, during Nigeria's World Cup qualifying match in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The former governor expressed concern over what he described as the worsening political atmosphere since 2025. He said each year appears to bring further deterioration. Obi called for an end to political hostility and discrimination, arguing that political differences should not prevent Nigerians from showing one another mutual respect.

Obi urged Nigerians to prioritise unity and shared humanity, adding that "a new Nigeria is possible." He made the statement in the context of his presidential campaign and the growing political tensions in the country. The NFF has not commented on the allegations.

The incident has sparked reactions from various individuals, including politicians and social media users. Some have expressed support for Obi, while others have criticised him for seeking photo opportunities. The controversy has highlighted the deepening divisions in Nigerian politics.

Peter Obi's allegations have also raised questions about the relationship between sports and politics in Nigeria. The NFF's role in the incident has been questioned, with some calling for the federation to clarify its position. The incident has sparked a national debate about the intersection of sports and politics.

The controversy has also raised concerns about the impact of political intolerance on national teams and athletes. The Nigeria U-17 girls' team has been preparing for an international competition, and the incident has sparked fears about the team's morale and focus. The incident is being closely watched by sports fans and political analysts.

Key points

• Peter Obi alleges NFF officials blocked him from greeting Nigeria's U-17 girls at an airport.
• Obi cites growing political intolerance in Nigeria as the reason for the incident.
• The incident has sparked a national debate about the intersection of sports and politics in Nigeria.