The Super Eagles of Nigeria are recognized for their world-class attacking talents, including Victor Osimhen, a Ballon d’Or nominee, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Boniface. These players showcase their brilliance every week while playing at the club level. However, once they don the green kit associated with the Nigerian team, everything changes. Despite such star power, the team often struggles with consistency on the international stage. Observers point to issues of poor leadership and strategic disorganization as significant obstacles preventing Nigeria from fully realizing its potential in football. It is not enough to have superstar players on your team, you have to also consider the leadership.
The Bible shows how leadership can shape outcomes. During King Saul’s reign, the Israelites were paralyzed by fear when Goliath challenged them. Their leader lacked the courage to inspire faith, and the entire army faltered (1 Samuel 17:1-11). In contrast, under King David, Israel transformed into a nation of “giant killers,” defeating not just Goliath but also other formidable enemies (2 Samuel 21:15-22). David’s reliance on God and his bold leadership united the Israelites, illustrating the power of capable leadership. The major difference between Saul and David was the quality of leadership they were able to provide.
Leadership matters deeply. It determines whether a team, nation, or organization can rise to its potential or remain in mediocrity. The story of the Israelites and the performance of the Super Eagles remind us to choose leaders who inspire courage, unity, and progress. In our personal lives, workplaces, and communities, let us seek leaders with vision and integrity, for good leadership can turn challenges into victories. You absolutely need to look inward and consider what kind of leadership material you are. If you had Osimhen, Lookman and Boniface, would you win matches or return with excuses? Do people find the courage and permission to tackle giants under your leadership?
