In a dramatic twist, Nigeria’s Super Eagles have finally resolved their tense standoff with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over unpaid bonuses—just in time for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying play-off semifinal against Gabon. Team captain William Troost-Ekong took to social media to announce, “Issue RESOLVED. We are together and, as before, focused on the games ahead!” His statement projected unity and focus, yet it comes on the heels of a training boycott that revealed deep frustrations within the camp.

While the NFF insists the matter is settled, the specifics of this “resolution” remain unclear. Have the players actually received any of the long-overdue bonuses, some dating back to 2019? Reports suggest that heated, late-night negotiations involving top sports officials and player representatives were needed to coax the team back to training. This raises pressing questions about the NFF’s management and transparency—issues that have long shadowed Nigerian football and eroded trust between players and administrators.

Despite the uncertainty, the players’ determination shines through. One member reportedly declared, “Whether they pay or not, we will train,” a testament to their unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s World Cup dream. Yet, the shadow of mismanagement still looms large, with NFF officials offering only vague assurances that “the President will address things when the time is right.”