Super Eagles Await Outstanding Bonuses Despite Presidential Approval

Over two months have passed since President Bola Tinubu approved a substantial 12 Billion Naira to settle outstanding bonuses and allowances for the Super Eagles, yet the players are still waiting to receive the majority of the funds owed to them. The Nigerian Football Federation NFF has only managed to pay the team for two out of approximately 29 match bonuses and allowances due.

The payments made so far cover the home games of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Sao Tome and Principe and Sierra Leone, with each player receiving two million Naira in total, equating to a million Naira for each game. These payments were made during the recent AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire, and since then, the players have not received any further disbursements.

The situation reached a point where former Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro had to appeal to the players’ sense of patriotism and personal ambition to dissuade them from considering strike action over the unpaid bonuses during the AFCON. Tensions within the team also surfaced as players expressed dissatisfaction with captain Ahmed Musa, accusing him of not adequately advocating for their financial entitlements. At least two senior players reportedly confronted Musa regarding the outstanding bonuses and allowances, some of which date back to 2021.

As the Super Eagles prepare for upcoming friendlies in Morocco against Ghana and Mali, followed by critical 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin in June, the issue of unpaid bonuses looms large. The team’s ability to focus on these important matches may be impacted by the ongoing financial uncertainties.

Editorial

The delay in disbursing the approved funds to the Super Eagles underscores a recurring issue within the realm of sports administration in Nigeria. While the approval of 12 Billion Naira by President Tinubu was a step in the right direction, the execution of these payments is crucial for maintaining player morale and focus.

Financial incentives play a significant role in international sports, not just as a reward for players’ efforts but also as a means of ensuring that athletes can concentrate fully on their performances without external worries. The current situation places unnecessary strain on the Super Eagles as they prepare for a series of important matches that could define their path to the 2026 World Cup.

The NFF must address this issue promptly to uphold its commitment to the players and ensure that the Super Eagles can represent Nigeria without any reservations. Transparency, communication, and swift action are essential to resolving these financial delays and reinforcing the bond between the federation, the players, and the coaching staff.

As Nigeria’s football ambassadors, the Super Eagles deserve support that matches their dedication and achievements on the field. Ensuring they receive their rightful earnings is a basic yet vital aspect of honouring their contributions to the nation’s sporting legacy.

Did You Know?

• The Super Eagles have a storied history in African and global football, including winning the Africa Cup of Nations three times.
• Financial disputes between players and football federations are not unique to Nigeria but are a global issue that can impact team harmony and performance.
• Jose Peseiro, before his departure, played a crucial role in mediating between the players and the federation to maintain focus on the AFCON tournament.
• The role of a team captain extends beyond the pitch, involving leadership responsibilities such as liaising with the federation on behalf of team members.
• The upcoming friendlies and World Cup qualifiers present an opportunity for the Super Eagles to showcase their talent and unity, reinforcing their status as one of Africa’s premier football teams.