Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has formally presented the Nigeria Football Federation with a 19-point list of conditions he wants met before agreeing to extend his contract as manager of the senior national team.
The 48-year-old Malian tactician, who led Nigeria to a third-place finish at the Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Egypt on penalties in the bronze medal match, submitted his proposal to the NFF on January 22, 2026. The document outlines his expectations regarding remuneration, working conditions, and operational control of the team.
Salary Demand
At the heart of Chelle’s proposal is a monthly salary request of $130,000. This amount, according to the document, covers not just his own pay but also includes the wages for his technical staff and personal assistant.
Welfare and Working Conditions
The former Mali international has requested what he considers basic necessities to perform his job effectively. His welfare demands include:
A private SUV with a driver and security personnel
A house in a well-secured environment with 24-hour uninterrupted electricity supply
A furnished office equipped with a projector for match analysis
Internet provision at his residence and office
GPS equipment for his work
Travel and Match Demands
Chelle wants greater control over the team’s preparation and player selection. His requests in this area include:
· The right to choose international friendly opponents based on Nigeria’s needs
· Flights for his wife and two children, with business class for himself and his wife while children travel economy
· The ability to travel abroad to watch and engage with Nigerian players plying their trade overseas
· Permission to attend local league matches to identify home-based talent for integration into the national teams, including U23, U20, and U17 squads
Technical Control
The coach is seeking assurances that he will have full authority over football matters. His demands include:
No interference in team selection and player call-ups
The right to initiate youth development programs
Proper camping arrangements for the team
Supply of equipment according to his specifications
Staff and Administration
Chelle has also made specific requests regarding his backroom team and administrative matters:
Official contracts for his staff members
Monthly salary payment on or before the 30th of each month
Inclusion of his personal assistant in the bonus and allowance structure
Bonuses and allowances according to the federation’s existing structure
Monthly meetings with all national team coaches
What Next?
The NFF is now expected to review Chelle’s demands and begin negotiations with the coach who guided Nigeria to AFCON bronze. Both parties will need to find common ground if the Super Eagles handler is to continue in his role beyond his current contract.
The federation is yet to issue an official response to the proposal.
