Crisis has erupted in the Super Eagles camp as players and officials have reportedly boycotted training in Morocco ahead of Thursday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash against Gabon.
Sources confirmed that the entire squad, including coaches and backroom staff, refused to participate in Tuesday’s session in Rabat, protesting years of unpaid salaries, match bonuses, and allowances. The players are said to be demanding immediate payment before resuming full preparations for the fixture.
According to team sources, some of the outstanding bonuses date back to 2019. Despite the Super Eagles’ impressive run to the final of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, where they finished second, many of the promised payments remain unsettled. “They have not been paid a dime since that tournament,” a camp insider told INNONEWS. “The players are frustrated and feel disrespected.”
This latest protest once again highlights the deep-rooted crisis within Nigeria’s sports administration, with officials of the Ministry of Sports and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) accused of negligence and poor management. Several players reportedly expressed disappointment that funds allocated for player welfare have not been properly disbursed.
“The issue is not lack of money; it’s the refusal to do the right thing,” a team official who preferred anonymity said. “How do you expect these players to give their all when they’ve not been paid what they rightfully earned?”
Observers warn that the standoff could disrupt the team’s focus and preparation ahead of the high-stakes semi-final match against Gabon on November 13 at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium, Rabat. The winner will face either Cameroon or DR Congo for a spot in the inter-confederation playoff.
