‘When Will This Embarrassment End?’ — Peter Obi Reacts To Non-payment Of Super Eagles’ Match Allowances

Opposition leader, Peter Obi, has criticised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over reports that Super Eagles players were being owed match allowances ahead of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final clash against Algeria in Marrakech.

Obi, in a post on his official X handle on Wednesday, expressed disappointment that the country continued to be plagued by avoidable controversies, even as Nigerians look to football for unity and relief amid growing economic hardship.

“When will this embarrassment end? Can we get through a day without troubling news in this country?” Obi lamented with questions.

He decried the government’s priorities, saying it was unacceptable for a nation that routinely “writes off trillions in debts for government agencies and political allies” to struggle with basic financial commitments to its national team.

“At a time when Nigerians need joy and unity—something the national football team, the Super Eagles, has been providing by winning matches and lifting our spirits worldwide—these same players are being denied their basic match allowances,” he said.

This came amid reports that the Super Eagles have threatened not to travel to Marrakech for their next AFCON match unless the NFF clears all outstanding winning bonuses.

Obi said the situation undermines Nigeria’s international image and dampens morale ahead of a crucial fixture.

“Nigeria deserves a better international image than this ongoing failure to honour previously agreed-upon allowances before the tournament. The Super Eagles do not deserve this embarrassment or the avoidable distractions ahead of a crucial quarter-final match,” he stated.

Reiterating his call for accountability and reform, Obi concluded his message with his signature hopeful note: “Nigeria must learn to fulfill its obligations. A New Nigeria is POssible.”