Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over the Super Eagles’ ongoing protest against unpaid allowances, describing the situation as typical of “a now disgraced country.”
On Tuesday, the players and technical crew of the national team boycotted their scheduled evening training session in Rabat, Morocco, to protest unpaid entitlements. The debts reportedly include allowances for qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2026 World Cup playoff.
Reacting via his X (formerly Twitter) account, Obi said it was “unfortunate” that players who have dedicated themselves to representing Nigeria are being neglected while funds continue to be wasted on “needless lavish spending and political patronage.”
READ ALSO: Obi Cubana Congratulates Soludo on Anambra Re-Election Win
“That is what is found in a ‘now disgraced country,’” he wrote.
“When those who serve their country are not treated with dignity, it sends the wrong message to our youth—that hard work and service are not rewarded.
Those who represent Nigeria deserve to be paid promptly and treated with respect. We must do better.”
Obi’s remark referenced a recent comment by U.S. President Donald Trump, who labelled Nigeria a “now disgraced country” while threatening possible military action over alleged persecution of Christians.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to face Gabon in the semi-final of the 2026 World Cup African playoff on Thursday.
The winner will meet either Congo DR or Cameroon in the final for a chance to compete in the intercontinental playoff.
