NFF Pledges to Offset Massive Debt Following Flying Eagles Bonus Protests

Posted : 09 April 2026

The Nigeria Football Federation is facing intense pressure to settle outstanding debts owed to the Flying Eagles squads from the 2023 and 2025 cycles. Players from both sets of the men's U-20 team have called for the immediate payment of qualification bonuses and daily camp allowances. These debts cover multiple major tournaments, including the WAFU B Cup, the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, and the U-20 World Cup.

Reports indicate that the total debt has ballooned to approximately N1.5 billion. Players are reportedly owed qualification bonuses of $5,000 each per tournament, alongside daily camp allowances of $100. The 2023 squad, led by Ladan Bosso, reached the World Cup quarterfinals in Argentina. The 2025 team, managed by Aliyu Zubairu, secured a World Cup ticket in Chile after a strong AFCON showing.

There are growing concerns among the athletes that the federation may only pay the daily allowances while ignoring the larger qualification bonuses. One team member revealed that there are roughly 65 days of unpaid camp allowances across both cycles. These players noted that while the previous NFF board scrapped match bonuses for age-grade teams in 2017, they were promised qualification rewards instead.

Internal sources suggest the NFF is eager to reduce its liabilities ahead of the upcoming elective congress. Resolving these financial disputes is seen as a strategic move to prevent the debt from becoming a political tool during the elections. The federation has faced similar bonus controversies recently involving the senior men's national team, the Super Eagles.

NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi addressed the situation by assuring that the federation is working on a payment plan. He dismissed claims of neglect and stated that the NFF would pay a substantial amount soon. However, he clarified that the total debt might not be cleared in a single installment. Sanusi emphasized that all matches played by the youth teams were officially approved for payment.

The delay in payments has sparked fresh debates about the welfare of youth players representing Nigeria on the global stage. Many stakeholders believe that failing to reward successful qualification campaigns undermines the motivation of young talents. As the NFF prepares for its next leadership transition, the resolution of these unpaid claims remains a primary concern for the Nigerian football community

NFF Pledges to Offset Massive Debt Following Flying Eagles Bonus Protests

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