F¨s: Lanre Onilu, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), has defended Victor Osimhen following his on-pitch altercation with teammate Ademola Lookman during Nigeria’s Round of 16 match against Mozambique. The incident, which occurred in the 63rd minute at the Complexe Sportif de F¨s, happened despite Nigeria already holding a commanding lead at the time.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Osimhen confronted Lookman after the winger chose to shoot rather than pass to the unmarked striker in the penalty area. The outburst sparked widespread reaction on social media, with many Nigerian fans criticizing the Galatasaray striker for indiscipline and unprofessional conduct.
Onilu, however, emphasized that Osimhen’s reaction was driven by patriotism and a desire for Nigeria’s success, urging that it should not be mistaken for indiscipline or disrespect. He stated, “Victor Osimhen is a passionate Nigerian who gives his all for the green and white. What happened on the pitch was purely about commitment to the team and the nation.”
He further mentioned that Lookman had clarified the situation and cleared Osimhen of any wrongdoing. “Lookman himself has made it clear that there was no disrespect. The matter was exaggerated, and both players remain united and focused on the national objective,” he said.
In F¨s, where Onilu is part of a Federal Government delegation supporting the Super Eagles, he highlighted the agency’s efforts to mobilize Nigerians and friends of Nigeria to back the team. “Our role here is to build national unity and project Nigeria positively. Football remains a powerful tool for cohesion, and AFCON provides a platform to showcase our collective spirit,” he added.
Onilu noted that NOA had distributed over 5,000 Nigerian flags and displayed outdoor banners across the city, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere in the stands. “Playing in F¨s is like playing at home. The atmosphere created by Nigerians here is incredible and has clearly boosted the morale of our players,” he stated.
Describing AFCON as Africa’s premier football festival and a symbol of continental pride, Onilu urged Nigerians to appreciate its significance. “AFCON is not a consolation prize. It is Africa’s most prestigious football competition, and winning it is a matter of honour for any nation,” he remarked.
Onilu also expressed optimism about Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup, revealing that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had officially petitioned FIFA over Congo’s alleged use of ineligible players. “We believe in due process and fairness. The NFF has taken the right steps, and we are hopeful that justice will prevail,” he stated.
He reiterated NOA’s mandate of communicating government policies and promoting value reorientation, unity, and national cohesion, noting that the agency operates in all 772 local government areas with 818 offices nationwide.