The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has ended its long search for a new head coach for the Super Eagles with the appointment of Malian tactician Eric Chelle.

Chelle, 47, is the former coach of the Malian national team and led them to the quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where they lost 2-1 to the hosts.

He has also managed clubs such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran, according to Dailypost.

The NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee recommended Chelle for the vacant role during its meeting on January 2, 2025, in Abuja.

The recommendation was subsequently approved by the NFF Executive Committee on January 7, 2025.

Chelle's appointment brings to an end Augustine Eguavoen's interim role with the Super Eagles.

Eguavoen led the three-time African champions throughout the qualifiers for the 2025 African Cup of Nations and led the team to a first place finish ahead of Benin Republic, Libya and Rwanda.