By Ayodele Odumade

Following Nigeria’s disastrous start to their 2015 African Cup of Nation qualifying campaign, the Nigerian Football Federation has acted swiftly, by deciding not to renew Stephen Keshi’s contract and have appointed Shaibu Amodu as interim coach for the last two qualifiers. The decision came after Keshi’s team beat Sudan 3-1 to reverse their 0-1 loss in Sudan over the weekend.

Amodu 56, who is no stranger to this post having been the incumbent no less than four times, is faced with two must win games against South Africa at home and Congo Brazzaville away, for the Super Eagles to stand any chance of qualifying for next years African Cup of Nations.

The NFF board thanked Keshi and his back room staff for their services to Nigeria and said: “In recognition of their contributions to the Nigeria game, the executive committee also approved that the trio of Keshi, Daniel Amokachi and Ike Shorounmu should proceed to any coaching course of their choice in any country of their choice to build their capacity, at the expense of the NFF.”

“All their entitlements will be paid within the next fortnight.”

Gbenga Ogunbote and Salisu Yusuf will assist Shaibu.