Christian Chukwu has been in full control of the Super Eagles since Adegboye Onigbinde stepped down after the World Cup finals.

But the ex-national team captain is expected to relinquish overall control to whoever is selected.

"Hiring a foreign coach is not our priority for this year, going by the programmes on our agenda," Akiga told reporters on Tuesday.

He said that more pressing issues, including the election of a new board for the Nigeria Football Association (NFA) and preparations for the 2003 All Africa games take priority at the moment.

"No one is insinuating we would not be requiring the services of a foreign coach.

"We will hire one when we are ready," Akiga said.

The NFA confirmed that seven foreigners had applied for the vacant post.

Nigeria's last foreign coach was Dutchman Jo Bonfrere, who was sacked last year after a run of poor results.