Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has shed more light on the ongoing bonus dispute between the Nigerian national team and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), revealing that the issue remains unresolved less than a day before their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash against Gabon in Morocco.
Tension rises as players maintain boycott over unpaid bonuses
According to reports, the Super Eagles players refused to attend Tuesday’s training session in Rabat in protest of long-standing unpaid bonuses and allowances. These outstanding payments reportedly date back to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) earlier this year and several previous World Cup qualifying rounds.
The situation has created a tense atmosphere in camp, with sources confirming that the players are demanding that the NFF fulfill its financial commitments before they resume full training ahead of Thursday’s crucial encounter.
While some members of the coaching staff, including head coach Eric Chelle, are allegedly also owed several months’ salaries, Troost-Ekong clarified that the technical crew has not joined the players’ strike, choosing instead to focus on preparations for the upcoming match.
The ongoing impasse has sparked concern among Nigerian football fans and analysts, who fear the dispute could derail the Super Eagles’ focus at a time when qualification for the World Cup remains at stake.
Conflicting statements between players and officials
Officials of the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Shehu Dikko, have stated that all pending payments were already processed and disbursed through official channels. However, the players have strongly denied receiving any funds, insisting that no money has reflected in their bank accounts so far.
This standoff has deepened mistrust between the players and football authorities, reminiscent of similar financial controversies that have plagued Nigerian football over the years, often just before major competitions.
Troost-Ekong appeals for calm, focuses on unity
In a message shared by sports journalist Oluwashina Okeleji on X (formerly Twitter), Troost-Ekong urged fans and media outlets to avoid spreading misinformation about the team’s demands.
“Once resolution is found, we will be the first to confirm,” the Super Eagles captain stated. “Any other statement or claim, especially demands beyond the rightful request mentioned below, is FALSE. All we want and continue to do is focus on the big games ahead.”
His statement appeared aimed at calming tensions while reaffirming the players’ unity and shared goal of securing World Cup qualification despite the ongoing distractions.
Countdown to the Gabon showdown
Despite the uncertainty surrounding their unpaid bonuses, the Super Eagles are expected to honour their playoff match against Gabon on Thursday evening at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat. The match, scheduled for 17:00 local time, will determine Nigeria’s advancement to the next stage of the World Cup qualifiers.
A win against Gabon would propel Nigeria to Sunday’s final against either Cameroon or DR Congo, bringing them closer to confirming their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to be co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
For now, however, the Super Eagles’ camp remains overshadowed by uncertainty, with the team’s mental and emotional preparation being tested as off-field financial disputes threaten to distract from the on-field mission — securing victory and restoring pride to Nigerian football.