The Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, has moved to reassure the public that national team head coach Eric Chelle will receive his outstanding wages ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.
The development comes after several days of scrutiny surrounding the coach’s remuneration, with reports indicating he is owed three months’ salary and unpaid bonuses.
Chelle, appointed in January following the exit of Augustine Eguavoen, has overseen a period of renewed optimism around the Super Eagles.
Despite a turbulent World Cup qualification campaign before his arrival, the Malian has yet to lose a competitive match in regulation time with Nigeria. His tactical approach and calm handling of the squad have helped restore confidence, even as administrative concerns continue to surface in the background.
The build-up to the AFCON in Morocco intensified earlier this week when news emerged that Chelle had not been paid for months. Although the coach had reportedly made no formal complaint, the issue raised concerns about Nigeria’s preparations and the federation’s internal structure.
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Eric Chelle's salary set to be paid
Senior figures within the NFF has explained to the Punch that the delay in payment of Chelle’s salary was linked to financial processing rather than neglect.
It was disclosed that the coach had previously received advance payments and that current pending salaries had already been approved administratively. Actual disbursement, they said, was awaiting treasury clearance.
The federation has been under pressure to put its financial obligations in order, particularly after a turbulent 2024 where managerial instability defined the national team’s operations. Finidi George resigned after failing to secure institutional support, which led to Eguavoen’s brief interim spell before Chelle’s appointment.
Further context emerged in May when the National Sports Commission confirmed it had funded Chelle’s salary upfront until October through a presidentially backed support structure. The temporary arrangement was meant to give the NFF time to secure more sustainable sponsorship and long-term financing. With that provision now elapsed, the responsibility has reverted fully to the federation.
As Nigeria prepare to announce its 28-man squad for AFCON, administrative clarity has become essential. All teams must submit final lists by December 11, with clubs obligated to release players by December 15. The Super Eagles will set up camp in Egypt before heading to Morocco, where they open their tournament on December 23 against Tanzania.
Nigeria, runners-up in the previous edition after falling to hosts Ivory Coast, will face Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania in Group C.
With ambitions of securing a fourth continental title, the federation is determined to present a stable, focused environment. Ensuring Chelle’s salaries are cleared is now seen as a necessary step in keeping preparations smooth ahead of a crucial tournament.
