The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has offered Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle a new contract worth approximately $100,000 per month, doubling his previous salary and sparking a wave of reactions from Nigerians online. The Franco-Malian coach, originally appointed in January 2025 on a two-year deal, was tasked with guiding Nigeria to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, that mission fell short after the Super Eagles were eliminated by DR Congo in the CAF playoff final, marking the country's second consecutive failure to qualify for the tournament, as reported by BBC Sport.
Chelle's Improved Reputation and New Role
Despite the World Cup disappointment, Chelle managed to improve his reputation by steering Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, earning enough goodwill to remain in the job. Following a meeting between both parties, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, confirmed that Chelle has agreed to extended terms with the national team. Under the new agreement, Chelle's monthly salary has been doubled from roughly $50,000 to around $100,000. His previous contract had also required him to cover the wages of his own assistants, but the NFF will now take responsibility for paying his entire coaching staff, according to Afrik-Foot reports.
U-23 Dream Team Responsibility
The new deal also includes a new role for Chelle in charge of the U-23 side, the Dream Team, ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games. Nigeria aims to qualify for the Olympics for the first time since winning bronze at the 2016 Rio edition. The 48-year-old coach had reportedly demanded up to $130,000 per month during negotiations before both parties settled on the current figure. In addition to his role with the senior national team, Chelle will now oversee the development of the U-23 squad as Nigeria targets Olympic qualification.
Nigerians React to the New Contract
The announcement quickly drew attention on social media, with many Nigerians sharing their thoughts on the deal. @Man Tonai wrote sarcastically: "$100k per month?? Foreigners are taking our jobs ???" @Chuks said: "For the first time in many years NFF has done the right thing. Eric Chelle over to you!" @Christian posted: "Double portfolio for him, not sure if this is a great idea for our football, but it looks like a good idea on paper though." @Mr Puckolous reacted: "NFF no go pay this money last last.... The kind cutting wey go enter this money eehh... We gather dey shaa." @Major Montez wrote: "$100k per month wey him go still need drag 'em for before they pay him…. The guy should be ready to fight to get paid.. They can pay $100k and both national team male and female will be having flight and hotel issues… CHELLE should get ready to fight e…"
Scepticism Over NFF's Financial Commitments
While the NFF's decision to extend Chelle's contract has been welcomed in some quarters, the underlying scepticism about the federation's ability to honour its financial commitments remains a familiar concern among Nigerian football fans. The new salary reflects greater responsibility, as Chelle aims to not only uplift Nigeria's football credentials but also reinvigorate the U23 team as they target Olympic qualification after a lengthy absence.
