Super Eagles team coach, Eric Chelle, is set to receive his outstanding salary arrears as the country prepares to open camp for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Morocco, a top official from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed.
The Malian coach, who recently concluded Nigeria’s challenging 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, was reported to be owed three months’ salary and bonuses, creating concerns just days before the Super Eagles camp is scheduled to open in Egypt on Wednesday, December 10. The AFCON tournament itself is slated to run from December 21 to January 18, 2026.
Despite the backlog, a report by journalist Shina Okeleji noted that the coach had not made a formal complaint to his employers regarding the non-payment.
An unnamed top official of the NFF, however, assured reporters that the financial issues are being resolved. The official emphasized the federation’s commitment, stating that Chelle’s payment is imminent.
“Eric came to see us, and we explained the processes. His money will be paid,” the source told The PUNCH.
The official further clarified the current status of the payment, adding: “We have paid him even 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.”
This commitment comes as Chelle faces a crucial deadline of Thursday, December 11, to submit his final squad list for the tournament. AFCON 2025 will be his third major assignment, where the Super Eagles, who were runners-up in the last edition, will compete in Group C against Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania.
