The Nigeria Football Federation made the announcement on social media earlier,  saying his appointment was with immediate effect but without giving any details of the contract duration. Labbadia takes charge 12 days before Nigeria kicks off its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a Group D tie home to neighbours Benin in Uyo.

The team also plays away in Rwanda three days later. The 58-year-old, is a seasoned Bundesliga coach with spells at Bayer Leverkusen, Hamburg, VfB Stuttgart, VfL Wolfsburg and Hertha Berlin. This will be his first job outside Germany.

He replaces Finidi George, who was in charge for four matches earlier this year.

--ChannelAfrica--