The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has addressed recent reports regarding a list of demands allegedly presented by Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, insisting that the Malian tactician is already adequately provided for.
Recent speculation suggested that Chelle had submitted a 19-point request as part of contract discussions, with demands reportedly including a monthly salary of $130,000, a private sport utility vehicle (SUV) with a designated driver, and dedicated security personnel. Additional reports claimed Chelle requested a residence with 24-hour electricity and a fully furnished office with modern coaching equipment, including a projector for tactical analysis and high-speed internet.
However, NFF Secretary General Dr. Mohammed Sanusi dismissed the idea that Chelle lacks essential provisions. “Chelle has accommodation, a car and a driver,” Sanusi stated, emphasizing that the federation had already met key welfare provisions for the coach.
Sanusi did not comment on the other reported elements of Chelle’s demands, particularly the proposed salary adjustment, leaving those details unaddressed.
A possible contract renewal
Sources close to the federation suggest that Chelle has one year remaining on his current contract. The latest demands are believed to be part of preliminary discussions for a potential contract renewal rather than immediate action.
The NFF’s technical committee is expected to review these requests before making any recommendations to the federation’s board for further consideration. Until then, no formal decisions regarding a salary adjustment or other changes will be made.
Shifting focus to football
Despite the off-field discussions, the focus for now shifts to competitive football. Chelle is preparing to lead the Super Eagles to a four-nation invitational tournament in Jordan during the March FIFA international window.
Nigeria, three-time African champions, will open the tournament against Iran on March 27 at the Amman International Stadium, followed by a match against hosts Jordan on March 31.
With Chelle’s contract negotiations lingering in the background, the immediate focus remains on the team’s preparations and performance at the upcoming tournament.
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