Nigeria captain Wilfred Ndidi has taken a firm stand to ensure his team’s preparations are not disrupted, pledging to personally pay outstanding player bonuses if football authorities fail to do so before Saturday.
The commitment comes ahead of Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations quarter finals match against Algeria this weekend.
Ndidi has been urging the squad to maintain focus since their final group game. Following the win over Tunisia that secured a Round of 16 place, he and other senior players have worked to keep the team united.
The issue of unpaid bonuses has threatened to overshadow the team’s final preparations. In a move to resolve the matter, Ndidi addressed both the coaching staff and the entire squad this week.
“I’ve been pushing the team to train and play the game versus Algeria. I’ve been doing this since the second game,” Ndidi stated. “I don’t want these unpaid bonuses to affect our preparations. I told players and coaching staff that I’d personally make the payments if they don’t get it.”
He first informed the team’s senior players of his promise before speaking to the full squad. This action appears aimed at removing any financial concerns ahead of the crucial match.
“I’ve now made a commitment to the staff and players that I’ll personally pay the bonuses if the authority fail to before Saturday,” the captain confirmed.
Ndidi has also pleaded with teammates to attend Thursday’s training session in Marrakesh and to remain ready for the Algeria fixture.
The Nigerian football team has faced similar bonus disputes in past tournaments. Captain Ndidi’s intervention highlights the leadership within the camp aiming to protect the team’s spirit and competitive focus.
