Former Anambra governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has slammed the Nigerian government and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over unpaid allowances owed to the Super Eagles.
Obi described the situation as “unfortunate” and indicative of broader governance challenges in the country.
Obi highlights governance failures
In a post on his verified X account on Wednesday, Obi expressed dismay that a nation able to fund “needless lavish spending” struggles to pay athletes who represent it internationally.
“It is deeply disappointing that our Super Eagles, who consistently bring pride to Nigeria, are yet to receive their due allowances,” he wrote.
“We have resources for wasteful spending and political patronage, yet those who serve our nation with dedication are left unpaid. This is the reality of a country struggling with accountability.”
Obi added that such neglect sends a troubling message to Nigerian youths about the value of service and hard work. “Those representing the country deserve prompt payment and respect. The government must do better,” he said.
Players’ boycott in Rabat
The former presidential candidate’s remarks come amid a standoff in Morocco, where Super Eagles players and staff boycotted training on Tuesday.
The protest stems from unpaid bonuses and allowances stretching over months, with players threatening to withhold participation until the federation settles its obligations.
The situation has disrupted Nigeria’s preparations ahead of Thursday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoff clash against Gabon.
According to sources, the players’ frustrations reflect not only current arrears but a longstanding pattern of financial neglect.
A history of financial disputes
The dispute mirrors repeated tensions between Nigerian footballers and administrator. Generations of players, from the 1994 AFCON champions to the 2018 World Cup squad, have faced delayed payments and broken agreements.
Former national captain Sunday Oliseh previously alleged that the NFF withheld players’ FIFA World Cup qualification bonuses in 2002.
“We had agreed to split $1 million from FIFA, but key players were removed to avoid paying what was owed,” Oliseh said.
Team captain William Troost-Ekong, however, urged calm and accuracy in reporting. “Once a resolution is found, we will confirm it. Any other statements are false. Our focus remains on the games ahead,” he said.
Efforts to resolve the crisis
As of Wednesday morning, NFF president Ibrahim Gusau was scheduled to meet with the players in Rabat. The meeting follows consultations with the National Sports Commission (NSC), which said it had released funds to cover outstanding obligations for the World Cup playoff.