January 08, (THEWILL) – President Bola Tinubu has approved the payment of N12 billion backlog owed to Nigeria’s national sports teams, including the Super Eagles. The payment comes just days before they are set to participate in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.
The outstanding funds include up to 15 months of salary arrears for coaches of the senior national sides, allowances owed to players, and previously unfulfilled promises made to the teams. Teams set to benefit include the Super Eagles, the Super Falcons, and the men’s Under-20 squad, the Flying Eagles.
A source within the Nigeria Football Federation stated that previous funds allotted to the women’s and youth teams had been reappropriated to facilitate the Super Eagles’ preparation for the last Africa Cup of Nations tournament in 2021. The diversion of funds left the other teams lacking the necessary support.
President Tinubu’s authorisation of payment comes at a crucial moment. With the 2024 tournament on the horizon, ensuring the teams finally receive owed wages and resources will boost morale and performance at a time when Nigerian football seeks to re-establish itself as a continental powerhouse.
The settlement of outstanding debts also represents a show of good faith in Nigerian sport more broadly. It is a demonstration of the President’s commitment to supporting the nation’s talented athletic programmes and stars. His action secures stability vital for these teams to keep their focus on bringing pride and victory at imminent competitions.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
