The Nigeria Football Federation has moved swiftly to dispel rumours of disharmony within the Super Eagles camp following a heated on-field exchange between star striker Victor Osimhen and winger Ademola Lookman.
NFF Issues Official Statement
In an official statement released by the Team Administrator, Dayo Enebi Achor, the federation described media reports of a major rift as "conjectures of various complexions." The incident occurred during Nigeria's commanding 4-0 victory over Mozambique's Mambas on Monday night, a result that secured the three-time champions a spot in the quarter-finals of the 35th AFCON in Morocco.
Achor was emphatic in his dismissal of the speculation. "There is no problem whatsoever in our camp," he stated. "Whatever people saw as a crisis between two brothers was easily resolved a couple of hours later. All is good and we are presently at training."
Players Downplay the Incident
Ademola Lookman himself addressed the situation in a post-match interview, playing down its significance. "I haven't talked to Victor Osimhen since the game, but what matters is that we won," Lookman said. He praised his teammate, adding, "He is a top player and very important to the team. For me, there is no big issue."
The winger also used the opportunity to refocus attention on the team's primary objective in Morocco, urging his colleagues to put the recent disappointment of failing to qualify for the FIFA World Cup behind them.
NFF Clarifies Akor Adams' Absence
In the same statement, the NFF also clarified another piece of camp news, dismissing reports that striker Jerome Akor Adams had abandoned the team. Akor Adams, who scored his first-ever AFCON goal in the match, had briefly left the camp with permission.
"He took permission to go and see his mother who was hospitalized here in Fès, and returned in less than an hour," Achor explained, putting the rumours to rest.
The federation's quick response aims to project a united front as the Super Eagles prepare for their crucial last-8 clash, seeking to maintain focus and team spirit in their quest for a fourth AFCON title.
