Unable to rely on the state, urban Nigerians are also finding alternative ways to address their grievances. Some are turning to a radio show, “The Bakete Family,” hosted by Ahman Isah and broadcast by Human Rights Radio six days a week from Abuja.

In a country with a still-developing sense of national identity, and with many regional ethnic, and religious cleavages, the Super Eagles are a strong—perhaps the strongest—symbol of national unity.