Conflicting claims over outstanding wages for Chelle

Eric_Chelle_Reactsto_Nigeria_Performance_SportPremi

Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, is reportedly being  owed outstanding wages and bonuses just weeks before the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Initial claims suggested that the Franco-Malian tactician was being owed three months’ salary, raising fresh concerns over Nigeria’s recurring struggle to meet financial obligations to national team coaches.

However, a top official of the National Sports Commission has reportedly told Osasu Obayiuwana   that Chelle was actually being owed two months but not three months’ salary.

According to the official, Chelle had been paid consistently since February until delays resurfaced around June and July—an issue that was later resolved. The current backlog, the official noted, covers September and October salaries, with assurances that payment will be made “very shortly.”

Despite the arrears, Chelle—who guided Nigeria to the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs—has not lodged any formal complaint with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), his direct employer. The official further explained that while the Sports Commission oversees certain administrative matters, bonuses fall strictly under the jurisdiction of the NFF, meaning any unpaid bonuses must be addressed by the federation.

The situation has once again triggered public debate over Nigeria’s continued pattern of wage delays for national team coaches. Many fans and analysts consider it a national embarrassment that these issues persist, especially on the eve of a major tournament.

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will begin in Morocco on December 21^st  through January 11^th , 2026 with Nigeria due to face Tanzania, Uganda and Tunisia.