Super Eagles head coach Eric Sékou Chelle has secured a contract extension with improved remuneration and will now oversee the U-23 Olympic Eagles following a series of reforms agreed by the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
The decision was reached at a high-level meeting in Abuja attended by NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko, NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade, NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and Chelle.
The NSC also announced that it would assume responsibility for the salaries of Chelle’s assistant coaches, a financial burden previously borne by the Franco-Malian tactician, in a move aimed at strengthening the technical crew ahead of key qualification campaigns.
Chelle’s oversight of the Olympic Eagles is part of a strategy to align the playing philosophy of the senior team with the U-23 side and create a clearer pathway for emerging talents.
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On the domestic front, the NSC announced that NPFL champions will receive ₦1 billion in prize money from next season, with runners-up earning ₦500 million and third-placed clubs ₦300 million. Financial rewards will extend to all teams based on final league position.
A minimum monthly salary of ₦2 million for NPFL players was also approved as part of stricter club licensing enforcement, with player welfare central to the new measures.
“Players must earn a living wage. This is how we build a league that commands respect at home and abroad,” Dikko said.
The NSC also announced that plans to return the NPFL to mainstream television are at an advanced stage.
“Our players must be seen. Our league must be known. Television coverage is non-negotiable,” Dikko added.
