The Flying Eagles have expressed their frustration over unpaid bonuses and allowances, prompting a plea to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) as they prepare for the final of the WAFU B U-20 Championship. Despite their impressive performance, including a 3-1 victory over Niger Republic, the players have reported that they are yet to receive any financial compensation for their efforts.
An insider shared with Completesports that the players are deeply dissatisfied with the situation in Lome, stating, “We are not happy with what is happening here. We have not received any camp allowances since we began our preparation for the competition.” The players also mentioned that discussions about winning bonuses and other allowances have been nonexistent.
This discontent is further compounded by the fact that the team has not received full payments for bonuses and allowances from previous tournaments, including the last U-20 AFCON in Egypt and the World Cup in Argentina.
In a ray of hope amidst their struggles, the players have received generous donations from supportive Nigerians, totaling around N20 million. These contributions have been a significant source of motivation, but the players are still urging the NFF to fulfill its obligations. “We just hope the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will do the right thing by paying us,” an insider added.
The Flying Eagles are set to face the Black Satellites of Ghana in the final of the WAFU B U-20 Championship on Wednesday. As they prepare for this crucial match, the team hopes that their financial concerns will be addressed, allowing them to focus solely on their performance on the field.
The situation regarding the unpaid bonuses and allowances has raised concerns about player welfare within Nigerian football. The Flying Eagles deserve recognition for their achievements and commitment, and it is imperative that the NFF steps up to support these young athletes. As the team gears up for the final, the hope remains that the NFF will prioritize their needs, fostering a positive environment for success.
