Eric Chelle NFF Pay Rise proposal sparks debate as Super Eagles coach tables fresh terms despite one year left on contract

A board member of the Nigeria Football Federation has confirmed that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has formally tabled fresh contractual terms, including a proposed increase in his monthly salary from $50,000 to $130,000 to cover himself and his assistants.

Also read: NFF Confirms No Talks on Super Eagles Coach Chelle

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the request forms part of negotiations tied to a potential renewal, even though Eric Chelle still has one year remaining on his current deal.

“Let us not forget that Chelle still has one year left on his current contract,” the board member said. “These are fresh demands to be considered for renewal, which remains subject to debate, especially with these terms.

This is for the technical committee to review before presenting to the board for approval.”

The discussions follow Nigeria’s third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where the Super Eagles went unbeaten in seven matches and scored 14 goals, their highest tally in a single AFCON campaign.

The team lost only in the semi-final to hosts Morocco on penalties.

Despite broad backing to continue in the role, Eric Chelle has reportedly attracted interest from elsewhere on the continent.

Tunisia are said to be offering the Franco-Malian tactician a package in the region of $100,000 per month, while there have been loose suggestions of a possible opportunity in France following a recent change in management representation.

According to UK-based journalist Shina Oludare, the coach’s reported 19 demands extend beyond salary adjustments.

They include provision of a private SUV with chauffeur and security detail, accommodation in a well-secured area with reliable power supply, a fully furnished office equipped for tactical analysis, and flight tickets for his wife and two children.

The coach is also said to be seeking influence over the selection of friendly matches, autonomy in squad decisions, and structured access to domestic league fixtures to scout talent for the senior side as well as the U-23, U-20 and U-17 teams.

Additionally, Eric Chelle reportedly wants his personal assistant incorporated into the team’s bonus and allowance framework.

The demands, submitted on 22 January, have intensified scrutiny around the renewal process. The NFF president had previously expressed a desire to retain the coach, but the board member stressed that any decision would follow due process.

Meanwhile, Eric Chelle has parted ways with his former agent, Abraham Sidibe, who brokered his Super Eagles appointment, and is now represented by Wilders Sport in Marseille.

The coach was quoted by UK-based journalist Osasu Obayiuwana as saying the move would provide the support and advice needed to elevate his career to another level.

Attention now shifts to next month’s international window, during which Nigeria are scheduled to face Jordan in a friendly between 23 and 31 March.

The Super Eagles are also awaiting a decisive ruling from FIFA on their protest against DR Congo over the alleged fielding of ineligible players during the 2026 World Cup African play-off final last November.

A favourable verdict could propel Nigeria into the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico, potentially reshaping the national team’s calendar.

Also read: NFF Rules Out Super Eagles Coach Chelle Contract Talks

For now, the proposed Eric Chelle NFF Pay Rise remains under review, with the federation’s technical committee expected to make recommendations before any final approval.