Former Nigeria international Obafemi Martins has called for stronger competition among the Super Eagles’ attacking players, arguing that the team must reduce its dependence on Victor Osimhen, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Nigeria struggled to produce consistent results when Osimhen was unavailable during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, failing to win any of the five matches the Galatasaray striker missed. The Super Eagles drew with Lesotho, Zimbabwe and South Africa twice before suffering a surprise defeat to Benin Republic.
Nigeria eventually reached the African play-offs but missed out on qualification for the World Cup after losing to the Democratic Republic of Congo on penalties.
Osimhen was unable to take part in the shootout after being substituted at half-time due to injury, with Akor Adams replacing him.
Martins believes the presence of quality alternatives would give the Super Eagles greater strength in attack. Reflecting on his own international career, he recalled competing with established forwards such as Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Osaze Odemwingie and Julius Aghahowa.
Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Martins said the competition he faced from Yakubu helped push him to perform at his best.
“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.”
The former Inter Milan striker also defended Osimhen’s passionate personality, insisting that his emotional reactions should not be interpreted as a negative attitude.
“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,” he said.
Martins urged Nigerians to appreciate the contribution Osimhen continues to make to the national team and support him.
“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 has scored 35 goals for Nigeria and is just two goals away from equalling Rashidi Yekini’s record as the Super Eagles’ all-time leading scorer.
The 27-year-old has also enjoyed an impressive start to the new season with Galatasaray, scoring five goals in his first three league appearances. Manager Okan Buruk has revealed that the Turkish champions have adjusted their build-up play to get Osimhen into more dangerous attacking positions.
The tactical adjustment has paid dividends, with the Nigerian producing multiple direct goal contributions in three consecutive matches, including a goal and an assist in Galatasaray’s 3-2 victory over Göztepe at the weekend.
Meanwhile, former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has claimed that Osimhen remains interested in a potential move to Old Trafford despite reported interest from Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.
“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.”