Super Eagles bonus dispute settled as NFF clears allowances before Gabon World Cup play off
The Super Eagles bonus dispute that rocked the Nigerian national football team has finally been resolved ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifying play off against Gabon. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) reached an agreement with the players to clear all outstanding allowances and bonuses that had caused tension in the team’s camp for several days.
The issue came to light when the Super Eagles players boycotted training at their base in Rabat, Morocco, on Tuesday, citing unpaid bonuses and allowances dating as far back as 2019. Reports indicated that the players were frustrated over repeated promises made by football authorities without fulfillment. The tension raised fears that the dispute could affect Nigeria’s preparation for the decisive clash against the Gabon national team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying series.
After several hours of intense negotiations involving NFF officials, team representatives, and senior sports authorities, both sides reached a settlement. The NFF reportedly released payments to clear the backlog of bonuses owed to players and members of the technical team. Team captain William Troost Ekong confirmed that the dispute had been resolved, assuring fans that the squad was now fully focused on the upcoming match.
With the Super Eagles bonus dispute now settled, the atmosphere in the camp has improved significantly. Players have resumed full training and are said to be in high spirits as they look ahead to one of their most important fixtures of the year. Coach Finidi George and his technical staff have expressed relief, noting that the issue’s resolution allows the team to concentrate on tactics and performance rather than financial concerns.
The NFF, in a statement, expressed appreciation to the players for their patience and professionalism throughout the process. The football governing body reaffirmed its commitment to improving player welfare and ensuring that such disputes are prevented in the future. Officials admitted that the federation had been dealing with financial constraints but said the welfare of national team players remained a top priority.
Sports analysts believe the timely resolution of the Super Eagles bonus dispute was crucial to maintaining team morale and unity ahead of the crucial play off. Many observers pointed out that off field distractions have historically affected Nigeria’s performance in major tournaments, and settling the issue early gives the team a psychological boost.
The upcoming World Cup play off against Gabon is seen as a must win fixture for Nigeria, as it will determine their chances of progressing to the final qualification round. Fans are hopeful that with the Super Eagles bonus dispute now behind them, the team can channel their focus and energy toward securing victory on the pitch.
Beyond this immediate game, the incident has reignited calls for better financial management and transparency in Nigerian football administration. Critics argue that repeated disputes over bonuses and allowances tarnish the image of the national team and reduce trust between players and administrators.
Nonetheless, the successful resolution of the Super Eagles bonus dispute demonstrates the NFF’s willingness to respond to player concerns and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s football image ahead of international competitions.
