Former Nigeria international Obafemi Martins has called for stronger competition in the Super Eagles’ attack, saying the national team must reduce its dependence on Victor Osimhen.
Martins believes having quality alternatives competing for the striker’s position would strengthen Nigeria and ensure the team remains effective when Osimhen is unavailable.
The issue became evident during Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, when the Super Eagles failed to win any of the five matches Osimhen missed through injury. Nigeria drew against Lesotho, Zimbabwe and South Africa twice, while also suffering a surprise defeat to Benin Republic.
The result of that difficult spell was Nigeria’s failure to qualify directly for the World Cup, although the team reached the African play-offs. Their hopes eventually ended against the Democratic Republic of Congo, who defeated the Super Eagles on penalties.
Osimhen was substituted at half-time because of injury and was therefore unavailable to take a penalty during the decisive shoot-out, with Akor Adams taking his place.
Martins recalls his own competition
Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Martins recalled that competition for places was intense during his time with the national team.
The former striker mentioned Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Osaze Odemwingie and Julius Aghahowa among the forwards he competed with for opportunities.
According to Martins, such competition did not create hostility among the players but instead pushed everyone to perform.
“You need someone that is going to compete with all the players, not just Osimhen. My own time, we had Yakubu there.
“If Yakubu starts the game, I will be on the bench waiting. I know if he is out and I score, I am going to start the next game. We are always like that. We do not hate each other because of that,” Martins said.
‘Osimhen’s passion is a blessing’
Martins also defended Osimhen’s personality, saying the striker’s passionate nature should not automatically be interpreted as a negative attitude.
He urged Nigerians to appreciate the Galatasaray forward and provide the support he needs to continue scoring for the national team.
“You cannot keep him quiet. I think that is what is keeping him going as well, because the way he behaves does not mean he has a stinking attitude,” Martins said.
“Seeing him is a blessing in the national team as a Nigerian. We should try to make him happy and let him score more goals.”
Osimhen currently has 35 goals for Nigeria and needs two more to equal Rashidi Yekini’s record as the country’s highest-scoring player.
Osimhen continues strong club form
The striker has also maintained his scoring form for Galatasaray this season.
Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk recently said the Turkish champions had adjusted their build-up approach to create more opportunities for Osimhen in dangerous positions.
The adjustment has already produced direct goal contributions for the Nigerian across three consecutive matches, including a goal and an assist in a 3-2 league victory over Göztepe.
Osimhen has scored five league goals in three appearances this season, putting him on course to improve on the 15 league goals he recorded during the previous campaign.
Saha claims Osimhen wants Man United move
Meanwhile, former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has claimed that Osimhen remains interested in joining the Old Trafford club despite reported interest from Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.
Saha said he believes the Nigerian is a Manchester United supporter and would welcome a move to the Premier League giants.
“I know for a fact that Victor Osimhen is a Manchester United fan. He loves Man United,” Saha said.
“All United have to do is make the connection, but that is why it has not happened yet. Osimhen is still waiting.”
The comments add another layer to speculation surrounding Osimhen’s future, while Martins’ call for greater competition highlights Nigeria’s need for more reliable attacking options around its leading striker.