Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has asked the Federal Government to pay the Super Eagles’ outstanding allowances and incentives, following the national team’s boycott of a training session in Rabat over unpaid dues.
Obi criticized the government’s reluctance to swiftly recompense the athletes who patriotically raised the national flag and brought pride to the country in a post on X on Wednesday.
He wrote, “It is truly unfortunate that our Super Eagles, who consistently give their best in representing our dear nation, are being owed their allowances.
“We always seem to find money to waste on needless lavish spending and political patronage, yet we cannot pay those who patriotically raise our flag, bring us pride, and serve with dedication. That is what is found in a ‘now disgraced country.’”
The former Anambra State governor stressed the importance of rewarding hard work and service, saying that ignoring such principles sends a negative message to the youth.
“When those who serve their country are not treated with dignity, it sends the wrong message to our youths that hard work and service are not rewarded.
“Those who represent Nigeria deserve to be paid promptly and treated with respect. We must do better,” he said.
Chronicle NG reported that players and several members of the technical staff of the Super Eagles withheld training on Tuesday.
The disagreement was not over the players’ daily allowances, which the NFF had promised to pay, but about the size of the winning bonus for the playoff games.
According to sources, the players requested $15,000 per match, for a total of $30,000, but the NFF only offered $10,000 per match.
They insisted that until a resolution was reached, training would remain suspended, and a boycott of the Gabon tie was a possibility.
The source explained the history of the bonus dispute, noting that players previously received $5,000 per match, and when Amaju Pinnick assumed office, he doubled the amount to $10,000.
Despite this, some officials urged for a reduction back to $5,000, sparking controversy.
“Eventually, the amount was kept at $10,000 per player per match. Now all the players are requesting $15,000 per match.
“They argue that other countries, such as Cameroon, DR Congo, and Gabon, have increased their own winning bonuses, so they want Nigeria to follow suit. That is where we are currently,” the source said.
