Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins believes Nigeria must develop a genuine rival for Victor Osimhen's starting spot, warning that the team's current over-reliance on their talismanic forward leaves them vulnerable.

Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Martins drew from his own playing career to illustrate his point, recalling the fierce but respectful competition he shared with Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Osaze Odemwingie, and Julius Aghahowa during their time in the national setup.

Healthy rivalry makes stars shine brighter

Martins described how that era's forward line was defined by intense internal competition — one where every player understood their place could be taken at any moment, yet no personal ill-feeling was involved.

"You need someone that is going to compete with all the players, not just Osimhen," he said. "My own time, we had Yakubu there. If Yakubu starts the game, I'll be on the bench waiting. I know if he's out and I score, I'm going to start the next game. We're always like that. We don't hate each other because of that."

In Martins' view, that kind of pressure is precisely what brings out the best in elite footballers — and he believes Osimhen would benefit from facing a credible challenger for his position within the squad.

Defending Osimhen's on-field fire

Martins also moved to defend Osimhen's combative temperament, arguing that his intensity is a strength, not a character flaw. He urged Nigerian fans and observers to look past what can appear to be volatile behaviour and recognise the competitive drive underneath.

"You cannot keep him quiet. I think that's what is keeping him going as well because the way he behaves does not mean he has a stinking attitude. That's how he can play, so the majority of people don't understand that," Martins explained.

He ended on an emphatic note, urging the Super Eagles set-up and the Nigerian public to protect and nurture their star forward rather than alienate 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."