Nigeria’s AFCON preparations have taken another turn, with the football federation now moving to clarify the payment situation around head coach Eric Chelle, Footynaija.com reports.
The Super Eagles head into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco under growing pressure, with the tournament scheduled from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.
Drawn in Group C with Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania, the three-time African champions faces a tricky opener, and fresh reports over unpaid wages to head coach Eric Chelle have only added tension just as final plans for the 24-team competition are being finalised.
Earlier reports confirmed that the Franco-Malian coach was owed months of salary and bonuses, raising concerns over the team’s readiness at a crucial moment. That situation has now prompted a response from the federation.

According to a report by Punch, a Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) official has stated that Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle will receive his outstanding salaries soon, as the country intensifies preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
As confirmed in the report, journalist Shina Okeleji confirmed that Chelle, who led Nigeria to the 2026 World Cup playoffs, has not formally complained to the federation about the salary delays.
A senior official of the Nigeria Football Federation has now revealed that the outstanding payments will be settled soon.
“Eric came to see us, and we explained the processes. His money will be paid. We have paid him even ahead before, and this time, we are waiting for cash backing from finance. The money on paper has been paid, and the coach is aware,” the official said.
“When they paid him two months ahead, all these were not glorified, and we do not need this now,” the source added.

















