Peter Obi has urged the Federal Government to pay the Super Eagles their outstanding allowances and bonuses, calling the delay disgraceful and unfair
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on the Federal Government to immediately pay the Super Eagles their outstanding allowances and winning bonuses, following reports that the players boycotted training in Rabat over unpaid dues.
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In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Obi criticised the government for failing to honour financial commitments to players who, he said, “give their best for the country.”
“It is really sad that our Super Eagles, who always give their best for the country, are still owed money. 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 wrote.
He added that neglecting the team sends a discouraging message to young Nigerians about the value of hard work and patriotism.
“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,” he said.
The players and some members of the technical crew reportedly refused to train on Tuesday, protesting unpaid winning bonuses for the playoff matches.
According to sources, the players demanded $15,000 per match, totalling $30,000for two games, while the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) offered $10,000 per match.
While the NFF has promised to settle daily allowances, the players have insisted that training will remain suspended until the bonus issue is resolved, raising fears they could miss the Gabon match.
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Historically, Super Eagles players received $5,000 per match, which was increased to $10,000 under former NFF President Amaju Pinnick. However, with rising costs and comparisons to neighbouring teams like Cameroon, DR Congo, and Gabon, the players now seek parity.
