A senior official of the Nigeria Football Federation has confirmed that Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, will receive his outstanding salaries soon, as preparations intensify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, The NobleQuestdaily reports.
The Malian tactician is reportedly owed three months’ salary and bonuses ahead of the continental showpiece, scheduled for December 21 to January 18, 2026.
Nigeria and the 23 other participating nations are permitted to name squads of up to 28 players for the tournament, with Chelle expected to submit his list between today and Thursday. The deadline for final squad submission is December 11, while clubs are mandated to release players by December 15.
Journalist Shina Okeleji noted on X that Chelle had not lodged an official complaint with the NFF regarding the unpaid wages. However, a top federation official insisted that payment arrangements were already in motion.
According to the official, the delay was procedural. “Eric came to see us, and we explained the processes. His money will be paid. We have paid him ahead before, and this time we are waiting for cash backing from finance. The money on paper has been paid, and the coach is aware,” the source stated.
The official added that previous early payments to the coach received little attention, urging restraint as the team prepares for a major international assignment.
In May, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, disclosed that the commission had arranged for Chelle’s salary to be paid upfront until October through a presidentially backed support group. The arrangement was aimed at stabilising Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualification attempt.
Chelle, appointed in January, ultimately oversaw Nigeria’s failed World Cup qualification campaign. Despite reaching the African play-off, the Super Eagles were edged out by DR Congo on penalties, extending their absence from the global tournament.
The upcoming AFCON will be Chelle’s third major assignment with Nigeria. The Super Eagles are drawn in Group C alongside Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania.
Nigeria’s training camp opens on December 10 in Egypt, with an unofficial friendly against the Pharaohs scheduled for December 16.
The Super Eagles begin their AFCON campaign on December 23 against Tanzania in Fès. Tunisia will face Uganda the same day in Rabat. Nigeria’s biggest test in the group comes on December 27 when they clash with Tunisia.
The final group matches will be played simultaneously on December 31, with Nigeria meeting Uganda in Fès, while Tunisia take on Tanzania in Rabat.
Nigeria, runners-up at the last edition after losing to hosts Ivory Coast, are chasing a fourth continental crown, having previously lifted the trophy in 1980, 1994 and 2013.
