Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly condemned the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for failing to settle the Super Eagles’ outstanding allowances, describing the incident as both “unfortunate” and a reflection of Nigeria’s misplaced priorities.
In a statement shared on his official X handle, the Labour Party flagbearer expressed disappointment that athletes who sacrifice for national pride are neglected, while public funds continue to be squandered on unnecessary extravagance. Obi stressed that footballers who consistently lift the nation’s spirit deserve better treatment and timely compensation.
Moreover, he pointed out that the continued delay in paying the team’s dues sends a dangerous message to young Nigerians — one that discourages dedication and service. According to him, when those who serve the country are denied their rightful earnings, it undermines morale and erodes faith in the system.
Obi urges respect and accountability
The former Anambra State governor urged authorities to ensure that players representing Nigeria are promptly paid and treated with dignity. He lamented that it is unfair for athletes to be owed while leaders indulge in wasteful spending and political patronage.
“Those who serve their country deserve to be paid promptly and treated with respect. We must do better,” Obi stated.
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Meanwhile, his comments came amid reports that the Super Eagles boycotted training on Tuesday in Rabat, Morocco, ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon. The protest reportedly stemmed from unpaid allowances and bonuses owed from previous competitions, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Team captain William Troost-Ekong confirmed the boycott, emphasising that the players’ concerns were strictly about outstanding payments, not fresh demands. “Once a resolution is found, we will be the first to confirm,” Ekong wrote on X, clarifying that reports of new conditions were false.
As of press time, the NFF had yet to issue any official statement addressing the players’ grievances or confirming whether payment had been made.
Tags: Peter Obi, Super Eagles training boycott, Super Eagles unpaid allowances, #SoarSuperEagles, Nigeria Football Federation, NFF.
