Peter Obi condemns unpaid allowances to Super Eagles, calls Nigeria ‘disgraced country’
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticized the Federal Government and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over the ongoing protest by the Super Eagles regarding unpaid allowances, describing the situation as evidence of “what is found in a now disgraced country.”
The Super Eagles reportedly boycotted their scheduled training session on Tuesday evening to protest unpaid bonuses and allowances for their qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and participation in the 2026 World Cup playoffs.
Reacting in a post on X (formerly Twitter), Obi described the situation as “unfortunate,” saying it reflects misplaced national priorities.
“It is unfortunate that our players are being owed while we always seem to find money to waste on needless lavish spending and political patronage,” he wrote. “That is what is found in a ‘now disgraced country.’”
The Labour Party flag bearer in the 2023 presidential election added that failure to compensate national athletes sends the wrong signal to young Nigerians about the value of service and integrity.
“When those who serve their country are not treated with dignity, it sends the wrong message to our youth—that hard work and service are not rewarded. Those who represent Nigeria deserve to be paid promptly and treated with respect. We must do better,” Obi stated.
The players’ protest comes as the Super Eagles prepare to face Gabon in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup playoffs on Thursday. The winner will meet either DR Congo or Cameroon in the final to determine Africa’s representative in the intercontinental playoff.
