In a significant development ahead of their crucial knockout match, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has provided a major morale boost to the Super Eagles by settling all outstanding salary arrears owed to head coach Eric Chelle.
Financial Distractions Cleared for Coach
Reports confirmed from the team's camp in Fez, Morocco, indicate that the football governing body has paid all salary obligations to the Franco-Malian tactician. This includes his salary for January 2026, effectively clearing any financial distractions as Nigeria enters the business end of the Africa Cup of Nations tournament.
A source within the Super Eagles camp revealed to The Punch that with the payment issue resolved, Coach Chelle is now in a positive financial state and fully focused on the task of leading the national team deep into the competition.
Coach's Contract and Earnings Details
Eric Chelle, who is midway through a two-year contract with the NFF, earns a reported monthly salary of $55,000. His earnings at the tournament so far also include match bonuses estimated at about $60,000, calculated at $20,000 for each of the three group-stage victories.
Additionally, the coach has been receiving a daily camp allowance of $400 since the team began its preparations in Egypt in early December.
Super Eagles' Impressive Tournament Run
On the pitch, Coach Chelle has overseen a flawless group-stage campaign, guiding the Super Eagles to three consecutive wins. Nigeria topped Group C with victories over Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania, becoming the first team to qualify for the Round of 16 with a perfect record.
Their most recent performance, a 3-1 win over Uganda, showcased the team's attacking prowess and growing confidence. Nigeria is now widely considered one of the favourites to win the tournament as they chase a fourth AFCON title, their last victory coming in 2013 under Stephen Keshi.
Unresolved Player Bonuses and Government Support
While the coach's situation has been resolved, a different financial issue persists for the Super Eagles players. Despite government support, the players are still awaiting their tournament bonuses.
Sources indicate that the NFF has not paid any appearance or win bonuses since the competition began. The players successfully negotiated an increase in their Round of 16 qualification bonus to $30,000 each, up from the NFF's initial offer of $15,000. Further bonuses are promised for a quarter-final berth.
The Nigerian government has reportedly released ₦3 billion to support the AFCON 2025 campaign. However, the NFF is said to be awaiting additional funds to cover the costs of a potential extended run in the tournament.
Knockout Stage Challenge and Team News
The Super Eagles are set to face Mozambique, known as the Mambas, in the Round of 16 on Monday, January 5, in Fez. A victory would see Nigeria advance to the quarter-finals in Marrakesh on January 10, where they would meet either Algeria or the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a related team update, the Super Eagles have been dealt a setback with three key players ruled out of the crucial knockout match due to a combination of injuries and illness.
