Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal Hosts Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal Dare, has received the head coach of the Super Eagles, Eric Chelle, at the Government House in Gusau, in a move aimed at boosting sports development and youth participation across the state.

The visit, which took place on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, was revealed by the governor in a post on his verified 𝕏 account. According to Governor Lawal, the meeting focused on strategies to strengthen grassroots sports and create more opportunities for young people through organised athletics.

Governor Lawal described the engagement as both cordial and meaningful, commending Chelle for his contribution to Nigerian football.

“I received in my office Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle, the head coach of the Super Eagles. It was a pleasure to converse with such a great sportsperson,” the governor said.

“We discussed key issues that support Zamfara State’s development and how to engage our youths in active sports across different categories, especially in light of the upcoming inauguration of our revamped stadium and sports complex.”

The governor also disclosed that the Sardauna Memorial Stadium in Gusau, currently undergoing reconstruction, is close to completion and will soon be inaugurated.

Once operational, the facility is expected to serve as a central hub for sporting activities in the state, with a strong focus on nurturing young talent and promoting community participation in sports.

Eric Chelle, a Malian national, has served as the Super Eagles’ head coach since January 2025 under a two-year contract. He guided Nigeria to a bronze medal finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, a performance that enhanced his reputation with the Nigeria Football Federation.

Chelle is reportedly in talks with the National Sports Commission and the NFF over a possible contract extension, as Nigeria seeks to retain his services amid interest from countries including Tunisia, Algeria, Angola and Gabon.

There are, however, concerns within the NFF regarding his limited presence in Nigeria, as he is based in France with his family. Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen has previously criticised the absence of Nigeria Professional Football League players in the AFCON squad, suggesting Chelle may be encouraged to attend more domestic matches to identify emerging local talent.