Nigeria’s off-pitch struggles are once again under the spotlight after world champion hurdler Tobi Amusan called out the Athletics Federation for giving her what she described as inferior and inadequate kits ahead of the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, Footynaija.com reports.
Her outburst has sparked fresh talk about how Nigeria treats its athletes, from the Super Eagles to track stars, and whether those in charge are doing enough to support them.
For the Super Eagles, the matter cuts even deeper. Players have repeatedly endured issues ranging from unpaid bonuses to poor travel arrangements, all while carrying the weight of fans’ expectations.
With the men’s national football team sitting third in their group and facing a battle to reach the 2026 World Cup in North America, many fans believe off-field neglect is just as damaging as what happens on the pitch.

That frustration spilled over on social media after Amusan’s video went viral. Fans quickly drew links to the Super Eagles’ struggles, saying poor management is hurting Nigeria’s top athletes across the board.
“I now understand what Mikel said about them not having a clue what it means to play at the top level. If Super Eagles don’t qualify for the World Cup, I won’t blame the players. Our athletes are treated very poorly. Mediocrity rules this country,” a fan said via X.
Amusan’s cry-out is only the latest in a long line of grievances. The world champion’s video showed kits fans described as embarrassing for a nation with Nigeria’s pedigree.
In football, an earlier report revealed that some Super Eagles stars are still owed match bonuses for up to 30 games, with insiders admitting that such problems leave players “not in the right frame of mind” before matches.