Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticized the Federal Government for failing to pay the Super Eagles their allowances, following reports that the players boycotted training ahead of Thursday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Obi expressed disappointment over the situation, describing it as shameful and a reflection of misplaced national priorities.
“It is truly unfortunate that our Super Eagles, who consistently give their best in representing our dear nation, are being owed their allowances,” Obi wrote. “We always seem to find money to waste on needless lavish spending and political patronage, yet we cannot pay those who patriotically raise our flag, bring us pride, and serve with dedication. That is what is found in a now disgraced country.”
The former Anambra State governor said the government’s failure to meet its obligations to the national team sends a dangerous message to young Nigerians, that “hard work and service are not rewarded.”
He urged authorities to urgently address the matter and ensure that athletes who represent Nigeria are treated with dignity and respect.
“When those who serve their country are not treated with dignity, it sends the wrong message to our youth. Those who represent Nigeria deserve to be paid promptly and treated with respect. We must do better,” Obi added.
The Super Eagles’ preparations for the playoff hit a major setback on Tuesday after the players and backroom staff reportedly refused to train in Rabat, Morocco, due to unpaid allowances and bonuses.
The standoff, linked to long-standing financial disputes with football authorities, comes just two days before Nigeria faces Gabon in the semi-final of the Africa World Cup Playoff Tournament at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, a decisive fixture that could determine the team’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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