CASABLANCA: The Super Eagles of Nigeria have boycotted their scheduled training session in Rabat, Morocco, over unresolved issues surrounding unpaid allowances and bonuses ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon.
According to reports, the entire squad including players and officials refused to train on Tuesday, citing long-standing financial grievances with football authorities.
Veteran BBC journalist Oluwashina Okeleji confirmed the development, stating that the boycott was a joint decision taken by the team and its backroom staff.
In a brief statement purportedly released by the players and officials, the team said:
The full squad including officials withheld from training today in Morocco because of unresolved issues with outstanding payments. The Super Eagles are awaiting a quick resolution to continue preparations for Thursday’s game with Gabon.”
The standoff comes barely 48 hours before Nigeria’s semi-final fixture against Gabon at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
A victory in Thursday’s encounter would earn the Super Eagles a place in the final playoff against either Cameroon or DR Congo, a must-win stage for securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
News of the boycott has sparked widespread reactions across social media, with many fans expressing disappointment at the persistent financial crises that have plagued Nigerian football.
Some sympathized with the players, describing the situation as “unacceptable and demoralizing,” while others criticized the timing of the protest, saying it could jeopardize Nigeria’s qualification chances.
Observers say the dispute reflects a deeper crisis of accountability within football administration and raises concerns about the team’s morale ahead of the critical fixture.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has faced repeated backlash over delayed payments to players and coaching staff in recent years, despite public assurances of reforms and improved welfare.
Analysts warn that unless the matter is resolved swiftly, it could once again undermine team spirit and affect performance on the field.
As of press time, NFF officials were yet to issue an official response to the players’ decision to boycott training.
