‘What a Shame!’ Nigerians Slam NFF as Super Eagles Boycott Training Over Unpaid Bonuses

Nigerians have expressed outrage and disappointment on social media following reports on Tuesday that Super Eagles players and officials boycotted training in Morocco over unpaid match bonuses and allowances — just two days before their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash against Gabon.

The protest reportedly disrupted the team’s preparations in Rabat, sparking widespread condemnation of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and renewed debate over the country’s recurring issues with player welfare and football management.

On X (formerly Twitter), many Nigerians criticized the authorities for what they described as gross negligence.

User @VerereIdjawe wrote: “We have an important playoff and we still have unresolved issues like this! When will things get better with our management?”

Another user, @Tobe_Betting, noted the urgency of the situation: “Super Eagles dey feel am! Payment wahala serious for Morocco camp. No be small thing when players boycott training. FIFA and NFF must settle dis fast before big World Cup playoff!”

While some condemned the timing of the strike, others defended the players’ decision, describing it as a necessary stand against persistent financial injustice.

User @Smuphy_ commented: “Good! This is the best time to hold the NFF to ransom. After all, if they don’t qualify for the World Cup, they’ll still earn their millions in Europe, while the fat pigs in the NFF and Sports Ministry wouldn’t have any excuse to fly en masse, like a drove of pigs, to the US to squander money.”

Similarly, @MiraculousSound supported the players’ stance, writing: “As much as this is not good news, we just have to do what is right. This is what I expect from the players — to speak up against illegality and lack of accountability from the NFF.”

Directing his frustration at the NFF President, @KelvinAmata posted: “Dear @IbrahimMusaGus1, see your life for outside! What a shame! Why did you contest to be @thenff president knowing fully well you don’t have what it takes? See the mess you have made of our football.”

Echoing concerns over misplaced priorities, @Atobajaye25 questioned why athletes were left unpaid: “Why should NFF be owing players? Government officials get paid for sitting in meetings, while those who actually work go unpaid. What a country Nigeria has become.”

Another user, @NnaemekaEdeh1, urged the players to remain firm: “Our Super Eagles players should sit out until the NFF pays them all outstanding arrears and match bonuses. Enough is enough.”

As the players await resolution of the payment dispute, fans across the country have urged the authorities to act swiftly to prevent further embarrassment and ensure the team’s focus returns to Thursday’s decisive World Cup qualifier in Rabat.

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