NFF officials blocked me from greeting Nigeria U-17 girls — Peter Obi

The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi has accused Nigeria Football Federation NFF officials of stopping him from greeting members of Nigeria’s Under-17 girls’ team at an airport.

He described the incident as another example of growing political intolerance in Nigeria.

He immediately asked his Protocol Officer, Jackie Wayas, to arrange a meeting with the players.

“With genuine joy and enthusiasm, I asked my Protocol Officer, Jackie Wayas, to find out whether I could greet and welcome the team,” Obi said.

However, he alleged that NFF officials rejected his request. They reportedly warned that allowing him to approach the players could cost them their jobs.

The former Anambra State governor recalled a similar incident on March 25, 2025, during Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying match in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

He said the governor welcomed him at the VIP stand before the match. After the game, government officials went to greet the players, but he could not join them.

Obi alleged that officials again warned that they would lose their jobs if he approached the players.

He expressed concern over what he described as the worsening political atmosphere since 2025.

“It is deeply troubling to witness the extent of toxic politics into which our nation has descended since 2025. Each year appears to bring further deterioration,” he said.

He called for an end to political hostility and discrimination, arguing that political differences should not prevent Nigerians from showing one another mutual respect.

“The new Nigeria we aspire to build must have no room for hostility, intimidation, or discrimination, regardless of political affiliation,” Obi said.

He urged Nigerians to prioritise unity and shared humanity, adding that “a new Nigeria is possible.”