Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle will receive strategic financial support from the National Sports Commission, which will guarantee his pay is paid in full until October, according to a statement made by the commission’s chairman, Shehu Dikko.
A support committee with the backing of the president is behind this effort, which aims to improve Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

Dikko talked about the commission’s efforts to revitalize Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying efforts in an interview with former Nigerian international Segun Odegbami on Eagle 7 Sports Radio 103.7 FM. He highlighted player incentives, logistical advancements, and financial support.

“It was a big challenge because when we took office, Nigeria had only three points from four qualifying matches,” Dikko said.

Dikko suggested establishing a Presidential Support Group, a public-private collaboration with the goal of raising the required funds and resources, in order to address this problem.

“This support group was included in the national budget for the first time after the President approved our request,” he said.

Funding the technical direction of the national team was one of the group’s first contributions.

“We worked with the Nigeria Football Federation to select the coach, and the support group agreed to pay his salary through October while the NFF finalized his contract. The NFF will be able to look for long-term sponsorship and financial options as a result,” he said.

It’s crucial to make clear that this is not being directly funded by the commission. The NFF is able to focus on other urgent issues because the support group is offering relief. In order to let him to concentrate entirely on getting the team ready for the World Cup, we are processing his payment in advance.

In addition to providing financial assistance, Dikko said that the commission had arranged a charter flight for Nigerian fans during the most recent game against Rwanda, which greatly improved team spirits.

“Bonuses were paid immediately after the match against Rwanda, demonstrating respect and commitment to the players,” he added, underscoring the agreement on a new payment scheme for players competing in World Cup qualifiers.

The commission intends to set up three friendly games in May and June in order to strengthen the relationship between the players and the coaching staff. To improve the standard of domestic playing surfaces, they are also seeking advice from pitch specialists.