Peter Obi urges FG to pay Super Eagles bonuses promptly, highlighting unpaid dues and the need to respect athletes representing Nigeria internationally.
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has called on the Federal Government to immediately settle the Super Eagles bonuses owed to Nigeria’s national football team.
The appeal comes after players reportedly boycotted a training session in Rabat over unpaid dues, raising fresh concerns about the management of sports funds in the country.
Obi criticised the government’s failure to promptly compensate the Nigerian national team, highlighting that neglecting athletes who represent the country internationally sends the wrong message to young Nigerians.
“It is truly unfortunate that our Super Eagles, who consistently give their best in representing our dear nation, are being owed their bonuses.
“We always seem to find money for political patronage but fail to pay those who proudly carry our flag,” Obi said.
The Super Eagles bonuses dispute escalated after players refused to train, demanding $15,000 per match for the recent play-off ties.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) had offered $10,000 per match, a figure that players deemed insufficient compared to other African nations.
Sources reveal the disagreement is not about daily allowances but the match-winning bonuses, which the team argues should reflect international standards.
“Previously, players received $5,000 per match. Under Amaju Pinnick, it increased to $10,000. Now, the Super Eagles are asking for $15,000 per match, following trends in Cameroon, DR Congo, and Gabon,” a source explained.
The situation has sparked fears of a potential boycott of Nigeria’s next fixture against Gabon if the issue is not resolved.
Peter Obi stressed that prompt payment of Super Eagles bonuses is not just a matter of fairness but a moral obligation.
Delays and underpayment undermine the team’s morale and discourage young athletes from pursuing sports professionally.
“Those who serve their country deserve to be treated with dignity. Paying the Super Eagles their rightful bonuses is essential for inspiring our youth and respecting national pride,” Obi noted.
This intervention reinforces Obi’s long-standing advocacy for accountability and transparent governance in Nigeria, particularly in sectors that promote national pride, such as football.
The Nigerian national team has faced repeated issues with delayed allowances and bonuses over the years.
From the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations to World Cup preparations in 2014, similar disputes arose, showing a persistent failure in sports administration.
Analysts argue that consistent mismanagement within the NFF and lack of transparent funding systems continue to demoralise players.
“If Nigeria wants to maintain its football standards, paying Super Eagles bonuses on time is non-negotiable,” a former player said.
Following Obi’s statement, many Nigerians expressed support online, highlighting the injustice of owing bonuses to athletes who bring global recognition to the country.
Observers warn that continued negligence could push top talents to represent other countries or reduce their commitment to the national team.
The NFF payment dispute now serves as a broader reminder of the need for systemic reform in Nigerian football, including proper contracts, timely payment of allowances, and independent auditing of funds.
Peter Obi’s call for the prompt settlement of Super Eagles bonuses reflects the urgent need to respect and reward those who represent Nigeria internationally.
By addressing this issue, the government can restore confidence in the national team, inspire the next generation of athletes, and uphold the nation’s pride on the global stage.
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