Why We Paid Chelle’s Salary Upfront – Dikko
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, has revealed that the commission has paid the salary of Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle until October.
Dikko confirmed that the commission proposed the establishment of a Presidential Support Group, a public-private partnership initiative to help fund and facilitate the World Cup qualifying campaign.
The former NPFL supremo highlighted the NSF’s role in rescuing the disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign through financial interventions, logistical support, and incentives for players.
He said, “When we assumed office, Nigeria had played four qualifying matches and only earned three points from a possible twelve. It was a complicated situation.
“The president approved our request. It is the first time this support group is being formally captured in the national budget, adding that the group will soon be unveiled.”
Dikko said the group also intervened to fund Eric Chelle’s salary upfront until October.
He said, “We worked with the Nigeria Football Federation to appoint the coach, and although the NFF signed his contract, we, through the support group, decided to cover his salary until October. This will give the NFF space to secure long-term funding and sponsorship.
“It’s not the commission paying directly; the support group is providing relief so the NFF can focus on other critical needs. We are processing his payment upfront. The idea is to settle him completely so he can concentrate on getting the team to the World Cup.”
Dikko also confirmed that a new bonus structure has been agreed with the players ahead of their next World Cup qualifiers engagement.
He said, “For the match against Rwanda, the bonuses were paid immediately. While the players were still at dinner, before they had even showered, the money was already on the table. That level of organisation shows respect and commitment.
“We’re not part of the contract. But we’re committed to ensuring the coach has all the support he needs. After all, this is about Nigeria. If we can help, we will. And we are doing just that.”
The Super Eagles have endured a disappointing 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with just one win from six matches to sit fourth on the log.
Eric Chelle took charge of his first match in the 2-0 win over Rwanda before a disappointing 1-1 against Zimbabwe in Uyo.
Up next for the Super Eagles in the World Cup qualifiers is a clash against Rwanda and South Africa in September.
Why We Paid Chelle’s Salary Upfront – Dikko is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
