2026 World Cup: There is Still Hope for Nigeria – Barr. Bucknor

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

Despite Nigeria’s shaky position in the race for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, legal practitioner and football administrator Barrister Babatunde Bucknor, a board member of the FCT Football Association (FA), believes all hope is not lost for the Super Eagles.

Nigeria currently sits third in their qualification group with 11 points from 8 matches, behind Benin Republic and South Africa, who both have 14 points.

Speaking in an interview with BSN Sports, Bucknor said the situation remains challenging but not beyond redemption.

“Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup may appear almost impossible, but that doesn’t mean it’s out of reach,” he said. “Looking at the quality of our players, I still believe we can make it.”

The FCT FA board member noted that the unpredictable nature of football could play in Nigeria’s favor.

“Football is unpredictable. South Africa, Benin Republic, or Rwanda could still drop points. If we win our remaining two games, we’re back in the race,” Bucknor added.

Beyond the national team, Bucknor turned his attention to the state of sports development in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), urging FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to act decisively in reviving grassroots sports and rehabilitating decaying infrastructure.

“The biggest problem at the grassroots level is poor funding and lack of commitment,” he said. “We used to have tournaments like the Chairman’s Cup, Principal’s Cup, and Shell Cup. Those competitions helped discover talents, but they’re now gone.”

According to him, the absence of active youth programs has crippled talent discovery in Abuja and other area councils.

Bucknor revealed that he personally funded the upgrade of a secondary school field in his area to serve as a makeshift training ground — a move that underscores how individuals are filling the gap left by government neglect.

Barrister Bucknor disclosed that he is preparing a petition to the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over the growing number of abandoned stadiums and unfinished sports projects across the FCT.

He is also calling for a comprehensive audit of sports development officers and an investigation into how funds allocated for sports projects have been used.

“We cannot keep watching while facilities waste away. The FCT needs a total sports infrastructure audit. Stadiums must not become relics; they should serve the youth,” he stressed.

As Vice Chairman of the Gwagwalada Football Council, Bucknor shared how the Gwagwalada Football League has grown into a model for other Area Councils.

“In just two years, we’ve made the Gwagwalada League a success. Some players have even signed professional contracts in Europe. It’s proof that with consistency, results will follow,” he said.

He noted that grassroots football remains the foundation of national success and must be treated as a priority by all stakeholders.

“Nigeria’s football future begins in our communities. If we don’t build from the grassroots, we’ll keep struggling at the top,” Bucknor warned.