Nigeria’s national team boss, Eric Chelle, has voiced enthusiastic support for keeping the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on a biennial schedule, calling the two-year turnaround ideal for the sport’s growth across the continent.
Although the Confederation of African Football (CAF) had contemplated shifting its premier event to a quadrennial timeline, CAF president Patrice Motsepe recently hinted at a possible reversal that could preserve the tournament’s traditional rhythm.
Chelle, who oversaw Mali’s campaign at AFCON 2023 before taking the reins of the Super Eagles ahead of the 2025 tournament, firmly believes that regular competition is vital for continental progression.
Speaking to SABC Sport, the Franco-Malian tactician noted that spaced-out tournaments hinder development, explaining that waiting four years between major events makes improvement far harder compared to testing teams every two years.
The former Lens defender emphasized that frequent exposure to high-pressure continental football not only sharpens local talent but also serves as crucial preparation for global showcases like the FIFA World Cup.
Beyond on-pitch benefits, Chelle highlighted the economic rewards for host nations, arguing that frequent staging of the tournament stimulates local economies, draws international visitors, and boosts commercial activity.
His comments come as Nigeria navigates a turbulent qualifying route for the upcoming East African edition. The Super Eagles have not lifted the AFCON trophy since their 2013 triumph under the late Stephen Keshi, a period that has seen five different champions crowned, with Ivory Coast standing as the sole two-time winner and Senegal’s 2025 title later awarded to Morocco.