National Embarrassment’ — Peter Obi Slams Non-Payment of Super Eagles’ Match Allowances
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‘National Embarrassment’ — Peter Obi Slams Non-Payment of Super Eagles’ Match Allowances
Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the continued non-payment of match allowances owed to Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, describing the situation as a national embarrassment that damages the country’s image.
Obi made the remarks in a post on his official Facebook page, expressing concern that Nigeria continues to generate negative headlines even at moments when citizens need unity and positive inspiration. He noted that the Super Eagles have recently lifted national morale through their performances, yet are being distracted by issues that should not arise.
According to Obi, the players, who have brought pride to Nigeria both at home and abroad, are being unfairly denied their agreed match bonuses, despite fulfilling their responsibilities on the pitch.
“At a time when Nigerians need joy and unity — something the Super Eagles have been providing by winning matches and lifting our spirits worldwide — these same players are being denied their basic match allowances,” Obi stated.
He questioned the country’s priorities, pointing out that while huge sums are written off as debts for government agencies and political allies and billions are spent on grand, self-serving projects, authorities struggle to meet basic obligations to national representatives.
“A country that writes off trillions of naira in debts and squanders money on grandiose projects now struggles to pay basic match bonuses owed to our players,” he said.
Obi warned that the situation harms Nigeria’s international reputation and places unnecessary pressure on the players ahead of a crucial quarter-final match. He stressed that failing to honour agreements reached before the tournament is unacceptable.
“The Super Eagles do not deserve this embarrassment or the avoidable distractions ahead of an important quarter-final match. Nigeria must learn to fulfil its obligations,” he added.
He concluded by reiterating his long-standing message of hope and reform, stating that a new Nigeria is possible.
