Former Sports activities Minister Solomon Dalung has launched a scathing assault on the Nigeria Soccer Federation (NFF), accusing its management of years of economic mismanagement and blaming them immediately for the bonus dispute that triggered the Tremendous Eagles’ coaching boycott on the eve of an important 2026 World Cup playoff.
Dalung, talking with uncommon bluntness, mentioned the scenario was fully avoidable and that Nigerians directing anger on the gamers “merely don’t perceive what these boys are going by means of.”
He insisted that the NFF—not the gamers—ought to face scrutiny, arguing that the federation has repeatedly did not account for funds launched to it by the federal government over time. In response to him, the newest standoff is merely a symptom of a deeper rot that has lengthy crippled Nigerian soccer.
“Earlier than Nigerians blame the gamers, allow them to first ask the NFF to elucidate how they’ve dealt with the cash they’ve acquired over time,” Dalung mentioned. “The Tremendous Eagles are merely asking for what they’re owed. Guarantees have been made, commitments got, and but we’re right here once more with embarrassment on the eve of a World Cup playoff.”
Dalung mentioned the gamers’ frustration was justified, noting that skilled athletes rely upon their bonuses and allowances as a part of their contractual expectations. He argued that if public workplace holders by no means expertise delays in their very own remuneration, gamers representing the nation on the worldwide stage shouldn’t be subjected to such uncertainty.
“How do you anticipate them to offer their greatest when they’re owed?” he requested. “Folks level fingers on the boys, however no one asks the federation the appropriate questions.”
With Nigeria set to face Gabon right now in Rabat, Dalung urged the nation to help the gamers, stressing that their protest was not an act of sabotage however a plea for accountability.
“These issues will not be new, however this match is just too necessary. The boys wish to qualify. Nigerians ought to rally behind them, however they have to additionally maintain the NFF accountable.”
