"Part of the military government's directive is that we should support South Africa which is also bidding for the tournament," he said.
And he added: "Various representations had been made to Nigeria by the South African people and government to support their bid to become the first African country to host the event.
"Apart from the need for Africa to speak with one voice, South Africa is an economically formidable candidate," Omeruah said.
Last month, Ghana withdrew its bid and said it was backing South Africa. Egypt also pulled out from the race but said it was rather thinking of bidding to host the Olympic Games in 2008.
Nigeria's withdrawal has narrowed the 2006 World Cup bidding candidates to Brazil, England, Germany, South Africa and African rivals Morocco who have said repeatedly they have no intention of withdrawing.
Reuters
