Players insist NFF must settle all outstanding match-winning bonuses before the national team travels to Marrakech for the crucial international fixtureNigeria’s senior national football team, the Super Eagles, have reportedly issued a firm ultimatum to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), declaring that they will not travel to Marrakech for the scheduled international match against Algeria unless all outstanding winning bonuses from the AFCON 2025 campaign are fully paid. The development has sparked fresh concerns over player welfare, administration credibility, and Nigeria’s preparation for key international engagements.
According to sources close to the team, the players are frustrated by delays in the payment of bonuses earned during the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and matches, despite repeated assurances from football authorities. The squad is said to have collectively agreed that no further commitments—including travel for international fixtures—will be honored until the financial obligations are cleared, viewing the unpaid bonuses as a breach of trust and professionalism.
The standoff comes at a critical time for Nigerian football, as the Super Eagles’ clash with Algeria is seen as an important test ahead of upcoming competitive tournaments. Players argue that bonuses are not incentives but contractual entitlements tied to performances already delivered, stressing that continued delays undermine morale and focus within the team.
This is not the first time the NFF has faced criticism over delayed payments to national team players, with similar disputes occurring in previous international competitions. Football stakeholders and fans have taken to social media to debate the issue, with many calling on the federation to urgently resolve the matter to avoid embarrassment on the international stage.
As of the time of filing this report, the NFF has yet to issue an official statement addressing the players’ demands or confirming whether payments will be made before the scheduled trip to Morocco. However, insiders suggest emergency talks may be underway to prevent a full-blown boycott that could damage Nigeria’s football reputation and strain relations between players and administrators.
The unfolding situation highlights ongoing challenges in the management of Nigerian football and raises fresh questions about accountability, transparency, and the treatment of athletes representing the country at the highest level.
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