UYO, Nigeria — Nigeria’s national football team resumed training on Wednesday evening after reaching an agreement with the country’s football federation over unpaid bonuses, ending a brief standoff that had threatened preparations for a crucial World Cup qualifying match.
The players, known as the Super Eagles, had boycotted training earlier in the week, citing long-standing grievances over unpaid allowances and performance bonuses. The dispute came just days before their scheduled semifinal playoff against Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Officials confirmed that the impasse was resolved following closed-door negotiations. “Issues resolved. Super Eagles to train at 5 p.m.,” said Promise Efoghe, the team’s media officer. Team captain William Troost-Ekong echoed the sentiment on social media, writing, “Issue RESOLVED. We are together and, as before, focused on the games ahead.”
While the Nigerian Football Federation did not disclose the terms of the agreement, sources close to the team said the federation had committed to settling outstanding payments. The players returned to camp and participated in a full training session at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
The episode is the latest in a series of financial disputes that have periodically disrupted Nigeria’s national teams. Analysts say such tensions reflect broader challenges in sports administration, including inconsistent funding and lack of transparency.
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi weighed in on the controversy, urging the federal government to honor its financial commitments to the team. “It is really sad that our Super Eagles, who always give their best for the country, are still owed money,” Obi wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “We often spend on unnecessary lavish projects, yet we cannot pay those who serve our nation with dedication. This is what happens in a now disgraced country.”
Obi added that failing to reward hard work sends the wrong message to young Nigerians. “When those who serve the country are not treated with respect, it tells our youth that dedication and hard work are not valued. Those representing Nigeria should be paid promptly and treated well. We must do better.”
Fans also voiced frustration over the recurring financial issues. “Every tournament, it’s the same story,” said Chinedu Okeke, a supporter in Lagos. “We want to see our team focused on football, not chasing unpaid bonuses.”
Sports analyst Ifeanyi Udeh said the timing of the dispute was particularly troubling. “You don’t want distractions before a World Cup qualifier,” he said. “Resolving this quickly was essential, but the underlying issues remain.”
Nigeria is seeking to secure a place in the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The team’s performance in the upcoming match against Gabon will be critical to its qualification hopes.
