National Teams
Super Eagles end strike, resume training 24-hour to World Cup Play-off vs Gabon
By Samuel Ahmadu
Nigeria men’s national team have suspended their brief strike and returned to training after resolving a dispute with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over unpaid bonuses and allowances, just days before their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup African Qualifier play-off against Gabon in Rabat, Morocco.
Team captain, William Troost-Ekong, confirmed the development in a post on his official X handle on Tuesday evening, assuring fans that unity had been restored within the squad.
“Issue RESOLVED. We are together and as before focused on the games ahead! 🇳🇬 @NGSuperEagles,” the defender wrote.
The three-time African champions had on Monday and Tuesday boycotted training sessions to protest unpaid match bonuses, camp allowances, and appearance fees spanning several international windows.
The players reportedly expressed frustration over what they described as “repeated broken promises” from the NFF despite previous assurances.
Background
The dispute over unpaid entitlements is not new to the national team. The Super Eagles have, in recent years, repeatedly clashed with the football federation over delayed payments.
During the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cameroon, players reportedly waited several months before receiving appearance fees and bonuses.
Similar payment delays were recorded after the 2023 AFCON qualifiers and 2025 AFCON qualifying campaign, with some allowances from friendlies still outstanding.
In March 2024, senior players privately expressed concern over what they termed a “culture of neglect” regarding welfare, even as the team continued to meet competitive targets.
The latest incident came at a delicate time, less than 48 hours before the semi-final clash with Gabon — a match that could determine Nigeria’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Resolution
Following an emergency meeting between team representatives and senior NFF and NSC officials on Tuesday night, both sides reached a temporary settlement.
Though the full details of the agreement remain undisclosed, federation sources confirmed that partial payments were processed immediately to pacify the squad.
The players have since resumed full training, with camp sources describing the atmosphere as “positive and focused.”
Head coach Eric Chelle, who remains unbeaten in four matches since taking charge, will now turn his attention fully to tactical preparations for the tie against Gabon.
Looking Ahead
With the strike called off, attention now shifts to Thursday’s match in Rabat. Nigeria will be seeking victory to advance to the final stage of the play-offs, where they are likely to face either DR Congo or Cameroon.
The NFF is yet to issue an official statement, but officials within the federation have privately acknowledged the need for more sustainable player welfare management to prevent future disruptions.
