The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle will be paid his outstanding salary before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco.
Public concern had grown in recent days following reports that Chelle was owed three months’ salary and several unpaid bonuses. According to New Telegraph, anxiety intensified earlier in the week after it was revealed that the coach had gone months without payment.
Although Chelle has not lodged a formal complaint, the situation has raised questions about the NFF’s financial management and its possible impact on the national team’s preparation for the tournament.
A senior NFF official explained that the payment delay stemmed from routine financial processing rather than neglect.
Speaking to News men, the official said the coach had previously received advance payments and that the remaining salaries had already been approved, with final disbursement awaiting treasury clearance.
The NFF has been under renewed pressure to meet its financial responsibilities, especially after a turbulent 2024 marked by short managerial tenures. The brief reigns of Finidi George and interim coach Augustine Eguavoen before Chelle’s appointment highlighted the federation’s instability during that period.
It was further revealed that the National Sports Commission had covered Chelle’s salary up to October using a special presidential fund—a temporary measure meant to allow the NFF time to secure long-term sponsorship. With that provision now ended, full financial responsibility has returned to the federation.
Despite the administrative setbacks, Chelle has brought calm and consistency to the Super Eagles. The Malian tactician remains unbeaten in competitive matches during regulation time, earning praise for restoring confidence and direction to the team even as off-field issues persist.
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