Nigerian political figure Peter Obi has condemned the federal government’s failure to pay outstanding allowances owed to the Super Eagles, describing the situation as a symptom of a country that has lost its way.
Reports emerged on Tuesday that the Super Eagles boycotted training due to months of unpaid allowances.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, maintains that payments have been processed, but the players claim they haven’t received any funds yet.
In a post on X on Wednesday, Obi expressed frustration over the treatment of Nigeria’s national football team, which has reportedly gone without their due compensation despite their service to the nation.
“It is truly unfortunate that our Super Eagles, who consistently give their best in representing our dear nation, are being owed their allowances,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor drew a sharp contrast between the government’s spending priorities and its treatment of national representatives.
“We always seem to find money to waste on needless lavish spending and political patronage, yet we cannot pay those who patriotically raise our flag, bring us pride, and serve with dedication,” he said. “That is what is found in a ‘now disgraced country’.”
Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, warned that the non-payment sends a damaging message to Nigerian youth about the value of patriotic service.
“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,” he explained. “Those who represent Nigeria deserve to be paid promptly and treated with respect. We must do better.”
The Super Eagles have been a source of national pride for Nigeria, consistently qualifying for major international tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup.
However, stories of unpaid allowances and bonuses have plagued Nigerian football for years, with players occasionally threatening to boycott matches over payment disputes.
Obi’s statement adds to growing pressure on sports authorities and the federal government to address the persistent issue of unpaid allowances in Nigerian football.
