Criticism has always been part of football, but former Super Eagles winger Oladimeji Lawal believes real progress comes from offering solutions, not just pointing out problems. His latest response to former Nigeria captain John Obi Mikel has reignited conversations about the future of Nigerian football and the responsibility of retired footballers in shaping it.
Lawal’s comments followed Mikel’s recent criticism of Nigerian football administration, where the former Chelsea midfielder questioned the leadership, vision and direction of the country’s football authorities. While acknowledging Mikel’s right to express his opinions, Lawal insists that lasting change requires more than public criticism.
According to Lawal, identifying problems is often the easiest part of leadership, while providing workable solutions is where the real challenge begins.
The former Shooting Stars General Manager argued that many former internationals have been given opportunities to coach or serve in administrative roles, only to discover that football management is far more demanding than it appears from the outside.
Using a colourful analogy, Lawal noted that “driving a car with your mouth” is easy because there are no real consequences, but taking responsibility for decisions is an entirely different experience. He believes that meaningful reforms can only come through active participation, constructive dialogue and practical ideas rather than constant public condemnation.
Lawal also challenged Mikel to demonstrate greater involvement in grassroots football development, he stated that he was unaware of any football academy or major football development project established by the former Super Eagles captain since retiring from professional football. While he acknowledged Mikel’s remarkable achievements as one of Nigeria’s greatest footballers, Lawal argued that influence should also be measured by contributions to the game’s long-term development.
His position is simple: retired footballers possess valuable experience, but that experience becomes even more impactful when transformed into projects that nurture the next generation.
The exchange between two respected Nigerian football figures highlights a broader discussion that continues to shape the country’s sporting landscape.On one side are voices demanding accountability, transparency and improved football administration.
On the other are those who believe criticism should be matched with active participation and practical reforms.
Nigerian football undoubtedly requires continuous improvement in administration, infrastructure, youth development and long-term planning. At the same time, former players possess the knowledge, credibility and influence to become part of those solutions.
The future of the Super Eagles will depend not only on talented players but also on collaboration between administrators, coaches, former internationals and private stakeholders committed to developing the game.
Healthy debate is essential for football to evolve, but genuine progress is driven by action.
John Obi Mikel has earned the respect to speak openly about the challenges facing Nigerian football, while Oladimeji Lawal’s call for practical engagement reminds everyone that sustainable change requires more than criticism.
If Nigerian football is to compete consistently with the world’s best, every stakeholder from administrators to former players and private organisations must move beyond identifying problems and begin building lasting solutions together.
