Super Eagles Boycott Training Over Unpaid Allowances in Morocco

Nigeria’s preparations for Thursday’s crucial 2026 World Cup playoff against Gabon were thrown into disarray yesterday as the Super Eagles and their officials boycotted training over unpaid allowances dating back six years.

The players, currently camped at The Rive Hotel in Rabat, Morocco, refused to take part in their scheduled evening session, insisting they would not return to the pitch until the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) cleared all outstanding payments.

In a statement released to The Guardian, the team declared:

> “The full squad, including officials, boycotted training today in Morocco because of unresolved issues over outstanding payments. The Super Eagles await a quick resolution to continue preparations for Thursday’s game against Gabon.”

According to the players, the NFF still owes bonuses from the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), as well as allowances for qualifying for the 2025 AFCON and the current World Cup playoff series.

Sources within the camp said frustration had reached a breaking point after repeated promises from the federation went unfulfilled. Players reportedly felt disrespected by the NFF’s claim that it was not responsible for debts incurred under previous administrations.

“They told us the 2019 bonuses don’t concern them because they weren’t in charge then,” one source said. “But this is the same NFF, and the national team shouldn’t suffer because of leadership changes.”

The players reportedly agreed to continue competing in earlier qualifiers despite the dispute, hoping that the money would eventually be paid. However, with the playoff just a day away, they are now demanding full settlement before resuming training.

A team insider explained:

> “They know that if they don’t get the money now and Nigeria fails to qualify for the World Cup, they may never get paid.”

Efforts by The Guardian to reach NFF President Ibrahim Gusau and Secretary General Mohammed Sanusi were unsuccessful, as both officials were said to be en route to Morocco to address the crisis. Repeated calls to the federation’s Media Director, Ademola Olajire, also went unanswered.

Meanwhile, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has reportedly stepped in to mediate between the players and the NFF in a last-minute effort to save Nigeria’s World Cup campaign from further disruption.