AFCON 2025: NFF reveal reason for unpaid Super Eagles bonuses threatening to derail tournament

Nigeria’s Super Eagles are facing an unexpected off-field distraction at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after reports emerged that unpaid win bonuses could spark a boycott.

The situation comes just days after Nigeria’s dominant 4–0 victory over Mozambique secured a quarter-final clash with Algeria. With tensions rising in camp, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has now explained the reason behind the delayed payments.

According to an earlier Pulse Sports Nigeria report, Super Eagles players and coaching staff are yet to receive win bonuses from four matches at the tournament, victories over Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, and Mozambique.

Nigeria topped Group C with a perfect record before cruising past Mozambique in the Round of 16, but the promised financial rewards have reportedly not followed.

Sources revealed that while the squad remains focused on the tournament, the players had drawn a clear line, threatening not to train or travel to Marrakech if the issue was not resolved.

The development sparked fears of a potential boycott ahead of Saturday’s high-stakes quarter-final against Algeria, a fixture loaded with historical significance for Nigeria.

The reports also suggested frustration among players who feel assurances were given before the tournament began, making the delay all the more concerning at a critical stage of the competition.

In response to the growing controversy, the NFF moved to clarify the situation, insisting that the bonuses are already being processed.

Nigerian journalist Tobi Adepoju, also known as Oganla Media, disclosed that a top NFF official confirmed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is handling the payments.

According to the official, the funds have been released and are currently being processed directly into the individual bank accounts of players and officials. The NFF assured that all outstanding bonuses would be paid in full once the banking process is completed.

With the Super Eagles set to face Algeria in Marrakech on Saturday, January 10, the federation will hope the issue is resolved swiftly to prevent distractions and allow Eric Chelle’s side to focus fully on their quest for AFCON glory.