Amodu has received the backing of NFF president Sani Lulu
The Nigeria Football Federation has come to the defence of under-fire Nigeria coach Shaibu Amodu.
Despite the Super Eagles qualifying unbeaten for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, Amodu has had a torrid time with the local media as well as public criticism over his managerial and technical ability.
With the disgruntled populace seeking a complete overhaul of the coaching staff, NFF president Sani Lulu has thrown his backing behind under-fire Amodu.
"Despite all he has been through I have nothing but high praise for him, he's achieved a World Cup ticket so why sack the coach?" Lulu told BBC Sport.
"It will be unfair and unjust to deprive him from reaping the fruit of his labour, because he deserves nothing but the support of everyone.
Under Amodu, Nigeria were unbeaten in 12 World Cup qualifying matches but the heart-stopping anxiety through those matches has led to a public backlash.
While many in the West African country have called for an experienced foreign manager to replace Shaibu Amodu, Lulu refuses to be drawn into sacking the man who has now led Nigeria to qualifying for the World Cups in 2002 and 2010.
"I have always insisted that the only way anyone can take over the job is if that person is Sir Alex Ferguson of Manchester United," said Lulu.
Despite all he has been through I have nothing but high praise for him, he's achieved a World Cup ticket so why sack the coach?
NFF president Sani Lulu
"That is only a worse case scenario but if it comes to that I cannot sack him.
"I can only politely ask him to work with the new foreign adviser."
Responding to newspaper rumours that pressure to sack Amodu is coming from government and higher authorities, Lulu said: "It's absolute speculation.
"He's at the moment preparing his program for the Africa Cup of Nations in Angola.
"Once he comes up with the essential plans and program, we will support him as a federation and not react to rumour and speculation."
Back in 2001, Amodu led Nigeria to qualification for the 2002 World Cup on the last day after edging out Liberia.
But he was sacked three months later as he paid the price for a disappointing 2002 Africa Cup of Nations campaign in which the Super Eagles went out at the semi-final stage.
The tournament in Mali was followed by a huge public outcry in Nigeria for the team to be reorganised before the World Cup in Japan and South Korea.
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