In the wake of the 2025 AFCON, the National Sports Commission of Nigeria (NSC) quickly kicked off discussions about extending Eric Chelle’s contract as head coach of the Super Eagles. This move comes just days after the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) publicly stated that no such negotiations were planned.
These conflicting positions reflect an institutional tug-of-war over the future of the 48-year-old Franco-Malian, who has become one of the continent’s most sought-after coaches after leading Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Nigerian government is racing to secure Chelle
Bukola Olopade, the NSC’s director general, confirmed that informal steps have already been taken to renew the coach’s contract, revealing his personal involvement in the discussions.
“I had dinner with him two days ago in Abuja,” Olopade told Footy Africa. “I’m not the president of the NFF, but we’re working closely together. That same evening, I contacted the NFF president, and we hope to meet all together on Tuesday or Wednesday.”
Olopade emphasized the urgency for Nigeria to act, reminding everyone that the NSC funds Chelle’s salary and thus plays a key role in the decision.
He also dismissed rumors of a move to other nations:
“Eric Chelle is going nowhere. Those countries don’t have the superstars that make his job easier. He has succeeded because he has the right tools and quality players to implement his ideas.”
Under Eric Chelle’s leadership, Nigeria has emerged as one of the most exciting teams at AFCON, laying solid foundations and shaking the nets of opponents. The 4-4-2 diamond system of the Franco-Malian has been praised for unlocking the full potential of players like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
“We now have a surplus of quality in all areas,” Bukola Olopade pointed out.
The NFF advocates patience in response to Chelle’s requests
In contrast, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is taking a cautious approach. Chelle signed a two-year contract in January 2025, becoming the first non-Nigerian African to take the reins of the Super Eagles. President Ibrahim Gusau made it clear that the federation would respect the terms of this contract, which runs until January 2027.
“There will be no discussion about a contract extension for now,” Gusau told The Sun. “We are only halfway through his contract. It’s only in the last six months that we can consider anything.”
This caution comes as Chelle’s popularity has never been stronger. Angola and Gabon are reportedly keeping an eye on his situation, and a return to Mali cannot be completely ruled out.
With no commitments until September, when the qualifiers for the 2027 AFCON kick off, the Super Eagles are left without a World Cup 2026 appearance.
