Éric Sékou Chelle was unveiled as the head coach of the Super Eagles on the 13th of January by the Nigeria Football Federation at the Media Conference Room of the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

Several football administrators were present, including the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko.

Éric Chelle began by thanking all Nigerians and the NFF for the opportunity to manage the Super Eagles:
“I want to thank my agent, the NFF, the NSC, and indeed all Nigerians for this big opportunity.

“Coaching the Super Eagles of Nigeria is an amazing job; I do not take this appointment for granted. I am elated and will do my utmost best.”

He also pledged his commitment to helping the Super Eagles qualify for the 2026 World Cup:
“Football is about scoring goals, so I favour an attacking style. I know the expectations of Nigerians, and I will settle down and work diligently with my assistants towards the goal of qualifying the Super Eagles for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”

Furthermore, Éric Chelle addressed the challenge of World Cup qualification, admitting that he has little time:
“Time is an enemy of the coach, but I will take full responsibility, and I need to quickly become a big brother to my players.

“If you want to be a great coach, you need to take some risks and make some sacrifices,” he added, acknowledging the difficulties the job entails.

The President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, praised Éric Chelle and spoke about his commitment to work:
“I see in the new head coach the right spirit and the right attitude, and I have faith that he will take the Super Eagles to the next level. He sees the job of leading the Super Eagles as his dream job, and that is a huge motivation in itself.

“Coach Chelle recognizes and appreciates what is ahead of him, and he says he loves the challenge. We will be there, giving him the necessary support all the way.”

The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, confirmed the NSC’s support for the Malian, stating that he was satisfied with the process that led to his recruitment by the NFF:
“Football is that one factor that unites all Nigerians and gives them tremendous joy. On our part, we are satisfied with the process leading to Mr. Chelle’s appointment and will support the NFF to ensure he has the most conducive atmosphere to do his job.

“The task of earning the World Cup ticket is for everyone, as the Government is fully ready to provide support—not in the form of any individual or group taking over the job of the NFF. The NFF is saddled with that responsibility; the Government will only support it with resources. I wish Coach Chelle the very best in the job.”

According to a prominent Nigerian football journalist, Mr. Adepoju Tobi Samuel, popularly known as OganlaMedia, Éric Chelle has signed a two-year contract with the Super Eagles. The deal includes an option for a one-year extension if he secures qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Chelle will bring three assistants and collaborate with the existing technical team to strengthen the Super Eagles’ brand.

He will also oversee the Super Eagles B team, which is preparing for the 8th African Nations Championship, but only in a supervisory capacity.