The National Sports Commission (NSC) has invited the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to a crucial meeting on Thursday, August 14, to deliberate on Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September and the World Youth Championship in Chile.

The meeting will also review the just-concluded Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco and the upcoming WAFU B U-17 Championship to be hosted by Nigeria next month.

Sources say there is tension within the NFF, particularly over the NSC’s directive that 30% of WAFCON prize money be paid to the team — a departure from past practice. The NFF has never allocated prize money percentages to players or coaches, often withholding these funds.

The NSC insists the directive “is cast in stone” and will not be reversed. A top official said no amount of “intimidation or blackmail” would change this stance, citing other countries such as Ghana, which offered their players a higher percentage after finishing third.

Football stakeholders and sports administrators believe such incentives will motivate players and inspire other athletes to give their best for the nation.

The NFF, however, has accused NSC officials of attempting to “run the federation,” a claim dismissed by many observers who point to poor coaching appointments, late player call-ups, and unpaid allowances as reasons for Nigeria’s shaky World Cup campaign.

With four must-win games against Rwanda, South Africa, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe ahead, the Super Eagles’ qualification hopes hang in the balance. The meeting will also address the Flying Eagles’ final preparations for the World Youth Championship in Chile and the WAFU B U-17 tournament in Abeokuta.

Stakeholders agree the meeting is essential if Nigeria is to get its football back on track, urging both the NSC and NFF to work together in the run-up to these critical competitions.