By Oluwashina Okeleji,
BBC Sport, Lagos

Nigeria sack their youth coach Godwin Uwua

The move follows criticism of his side's performance at the 2007 African Youth Championships where he led his side to the runners-up spot behind hosts Congo.

Uwua, who took charge in March 2006, also led his side to qualification for this year's World Youth Championships taking place in Canada.

However, his managerial acumen came under severe criticism from the media and fans back in Nigeria.

According to NFA chairman Sani Lulu, the decision was taken in order to prevent a disastrous outing at the world stage: "We decided to take action before it was too late.

"We need to get our acts together before the World Youth Cup in Canada," Lulu told BBC Sport on Monday.

"This team is the foundation of our football and adequate attention needs to be given to them.

"This was not a witch-hunt of Uwua, he has done his bit and now is the time to go a step further."

Ladan Bosso, who assisted Uwua in Congo, has been appointed caretaker coach.

"Bosso will stay in charge for the time being until a substantive coach is appointed," Lulu added.

Nigeria finished runners-up at the last World Youth Championships in Holland, losing 2-1 to eventual winners Argentina in the final.

The Flying Eagles have been drawn to face Japan, Scotland and Costa Rica in Group F of this year's World Youth Championships scheduled for Canada from 30 June - 22 July.

Back in 2003, Godwin Uwua was dismissed by the NFA from his role as the under-23 coach just six months before the start of the All-Africa Games.

The NFA said Uwua was sacked because he was employed by a domestic club while under contract with the national team.