NFF to review Eric Chelle’s $130k salary demand & contract

A board member of the Nigeria Football Federation has confirmed that Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle tabled fresh terms before the body, including an increase in his monthly salary from $50,000 to $130,000, which will also cover his assistants. However, everything remains subject to review and approval, PUNCH Sport Extra reports.

Although Chelle still has one year left on his current deal, his future has become a topic of debate following Nigeria’s third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Super Eagles went unbeaten in seven matches, losing only the semi-final to hosts Morocco on penalties. They also scored 14 goals at the tournament — Nigeria’s highest tally in a single AFCON campaign.

Despite strong backing to remain in charge, Chelle has reportedly attracted interest elsewhere on the continent, with Tunisia said to be offering the Franco-Malian tactician a salary in the region of $100,000 per month.

He has also been loosely linked with a possible opportunity in France after recently changing management.

According to UK-based journalist Shina Oludare, Chelle’s reported 19 demands include a private SUV with a chauffeur and security detail; accommodation in a well-secured area with uninterrupted power supply; a furnished office equipped with a projector for tactical analysis; flight tickets for his wife and two children; provision of equipment in line with his technical specifications; influence in selecting friendly matches; and autonomy in team selection.

The coach also reportedly wants structured access to domestic league matches to scout players for integration into the senior team as well as the U-23, U-20 and U-17 sides. Additionally, he is said to be requesting that his personal assistant be included in the bonus and allowance framework.

The demands, reportedly submitted on January 22, have intensified scrutiny around a potential renewal.

“Let us not forget that Chelle still has one year left on his current contract. 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 NFF board member told The PUNCH.

“Before now, the NFF president has publicly expressed our desire to keep working with him. When the time comes, we will meet again to discuss the new situation,” he added.

Meanwhile, 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.

“It is time for me to take myself to another level. I felt that this agency will give me the required support and advice that I need to do this,” Chelle was quoted as saying by UK-based journalist Osasu Obayiuwana.

Chelle is expected to name a squad ahead of next month’s international window, during which Nigeria are scheduled to face Jordan in a friendly between March 23 and 31.

The Super Eagles are also awaiting a FIFA verdict on their protest against DR Congo for allegedly fielding ineligible players during the 2026 World Cup African play-off final last November. Should the ruling favour Nigeria, the team could advance to the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico, potentially reshaping their international schedule.

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