Stephen Keshi has announced his decision to
walk away from the Nigeria national team head coach
job because of a delay in contract negotiations.
The former defender's contract with the Super Eagles
ended after the 2014 World Cup campaign in Brazil,
but he was set to renew terms and guide the side in
their quest to defend their Africa Cup of Nations title in
Morocco.
With nothing confirmed ahead of their first of their
2015 AFCON qualifier early next month, Keshi has
decided to explore his options elsewhere.
"Talks over a new contract shouldn't drag on. I can't
wait any more - the NFF (Nigeria Football Federation)
is not serious," he told BBC Sport. "I have moved on. I
can only wish the country well for the future.
"There's a game in two weeks (AFCON qualifier against
Congo), but no-one is thinking about it and at the
same time they expect you to win."
He added that he is aware of NFF's internal battle for
control of the office, which has forced FIFA to step in,
saying: "I understand the ongoing crisis facing the
federation but the national team should not suffer from
such at this crucial stage.
"Sadly, I also think attention is focused more on the
upcoming NFF elections and the national team is
simply not a priority.
"I've had about seven countries approach me in the
last two months but I kept them all away. I love my
country and I am aware of the dream our fans had of
me taking this team to the next level.
"While acknowledging the efforts of some people
involved in the negotiation, I think others probably
have other important things to do."
