Nigeria, Oct. 19 -- After a rollercoaster series of World Cup qualifiers, Nigeria has missed out on direct qualification, scraping through only to the playoffs. The hope, the prayers, and the last-minute expectations did not deliver the automatic passage many fans longed for. Yet the pattern is familiar: a reliance on miracles rather than planning, discipline, and structured development.

It is telling that one of the most popular songs of the Super Eagles' fan club is, "He is a miracle-working God, He is Alpha and Omega, He is a miracle-working God." This song captures our national disposition: a belief that miracles, rather than meticulous planning, discipline, and science, will deliver success. While faith is a strength, it cannot subs...