Senior officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) convened a high-level closed-door meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, as preparations for the fast-approaching 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) entered a decisive phase. With the tournament set to kick off on 21 December in Morocco, the federation is racing against time to finalize critical plans for the Super Eagles.
Chaired by NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, the meeting covered a wide range of issues, including the national team’s camp schedule, pending logistical arrangements, and the much-anticipated—but still unreleased—28-man squad list. Blueprint reports that officials also discussed player bonuses and the outstanding salary owed to head coach Eric Chelle, whose contract situation has lingered for weeks.
Egypt Friendly and World Cup Woes on the Agenda
Part of the deliberations focused on the Super Eagles’ upcoming friendly match against Egypt in Cairo next week. The game is expected to be the team’s final significant warm-up ahead of AFCON and is seen as a key test of tactical readiness and squad cohesion.
The federation also examined Nigeria’s stumbling 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. With unexpected slip-ups already threatening the country’s path to the global tournament, attendees reportedly emphasized the need for strategic adjustments to prevent additional setbacks.
Key Absences and Growing Tensions
Notably absent from the Abuja meeting were NFF Second Vice President Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye—who was said to be on assignment in Saudi Arabia—and Chief Anyansi-Agwu, another top figure within the federation.
However, the most pressing source of internal strain appears to be the delay in announcing the final AFCON squad. A highly placed insider revealed that the hold-up has nothing to do with paperwork or incomplete decisions. Instead, the individual said external influence is disrupting the process.
“Some powerful interests are pushing for certain players to be added to the final squad,” the source disclosed. “That is the only reason the list has not been released. Nothing more, nothing less.”
Squad Finalized—but Not Yet Unveiled
Naija News confirms that the NFF has already selected the 28-man team that will travel to Morocco, but officials have yet to give approval for the official announcement. For now, fans, analysts, and even some players remain in suspense as the pressure behind the scenes continues to build.
With the countdown to AFCON ticking rapidly, the federation’s ability to navigate these last-minute challenges may determine the Super Eagles’ readiness—and possibly their fate—at the continental showpiece.
0 Comments