Rabat, Morocco — Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has dismissed reports alleging that the Nigerian national team demanded special bonuses ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon.
The Nigerian squad reportedly boycotted training in Rabat, Morocco, on Tuesday to protest unpaid bonuses and allowances owed by the football authorities.
Players Boycott Training Over Unpaid Allowances
In a statement jointly issued by the team, Troost-Ekong confirmed that both players and officials were absent from training due to unresolved payment issues.
“The full squad, including officials, boycotted training today in Morocco because of the unresolved issues with outstanding payments,” the statement read. “The Super Eagles are awaiting a quick resolution to continue preparations for Thursday’s game with Gabon.”
Troost-Ekong: We Didn’t Demand Any Special Bonus
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Super Eagles captain refuted speculations that the players were making fresh demands for special bonuses.
“Any other statement or claim—especially demands other than the rightful request written below—are FALSE,” Troost-Ekong posted, referencing a verified report about the team’s unpaid entitlements.
He emphasized that the team’s protest was about long-overdue payments, not new financial requests, contrary to media reports circulating online.
Unpaid Dues Stretch Back Years
Reports indicate that the Super Eagles’ unpaid bonuses span several years, covering match bonuses, appearance fees, and allowances. The lingering dispute has reportedly dampened morale in camp ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifier.
Nigeria vs Gabon: Crucial Playoff Ahead
Despite the standoff, the Super Eagles are expected to resume training once the matter is resolved. Nigeria will face Éric Chelle’s Gabonese side, the Panthers, in the semi-final of the 2026 World Cup playoffs at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat on Thursday.
Follow OlofofoTV for more sports updates and breaking news on the Super Eagles and Nigerian football.