Talks between the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Super Eagles are reportedly nearing resolution following a tense standoff over unpaid bonuses and allowances that led to the players’ boycott of training ahead of Thursday’s crucial World Cup playoff clash against Gabon.
Multiple reports from Punch, Sahara Reporters, and BBC’s Oluwashina Okeleji confirm that the Super Eagles players and technical staff have refused to train in Rabat, Morocco, in protest over outstanding bonuses dating back to 2019, including unpaid allowances from the 2025 AFCON qualifiers and 2026 World Cup playoffs.
Okeleji quoted a player as saying, “We are tired of empty promises,” reflecting growing frustration within the camp. The situation has sparked widespread criticism of the NFF’s financial management and alleged neglect of contractual obligations to national teams.
The dispute comes amid broader scrutiny of the NFF following revelations that the federation allegedly paid members of Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team only ₦100,000 in total allowances, wages, and bonuses after their World Cup campaign. Reports by sports analyst C. Mobike further allege that the players had to fund their own travel, kits, and medical expenses—claims that have fueled public outrage over the treatment of Nigeria’s national teams.
Similarly, the U-17 men’s team reportedly received only a marginally higher allowance, with an additional ₦15,000 bonus, highlighting systemic issues of poor welfare across all levels of Nigerian football.
While some fans have criticized the Super Eagles for staging a protest on the eve of such a vital fixture, others argue that the players’ demands are justified, describing the situation as “an avoidable embarrassment” for Nigerian football authorities.
According to reliable journalist Buchi Laba, both parties are close to reaching an agreement, with discussions ongoing for what is described as a “special bonus” package.
However, BBC’s Okeleji noted that a similar offer was made by the NFF over a month ago without resolution, suggesting a pattern of unfulfilled promises that dates back to the previous National Sports Commission administration.
Further updates from Tobi Adepoju (OgaNlaMedia) reveal that the players are demanding $30,000 per win, while the NFF is offering to maintain the standard $10,000 per win structure, adding $30,000 per goal against Gabon and $50,000 per goal in the final playoff. The players have reportedly rejected this offer.
Sources also indicate that head coach Eric Chelle and some team officials are opposed to the boycott, as a few players have shown willingness to resume training.
With the crucial World Cup playoff against Gabon just days away, fans and stakeholders are hoping that the dispute will be resolved swiftly to allow the team to focus on securing Nigeria’s place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Negotiations are expected to continue through Wednesday, as the NFF faces mounting pressure to restore calm and confidence within the national team camp.
Stay with ZazaMedia Sports for real-time updates from Rabat as the Super Eagles push for a resolution and prepare for their decisive clash against Gabon.
