Top officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) convened a crucial closed-door meeting in Abuja on Wednesday. The session aimed to fast-track preparations for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), as the tournament draws nearer.

Key Discussions at the NFF Meeting

NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau led the proceedings, tackling a comprehensive agenda. Discussions focused on several critical areas concerning the Super Eagles. These included the team’s training camp plans and the much-anticipated 28-man squad list, which is yet to be announced.

Player bonuses were also a significant point of discussion. Additionally, the outstanding salary owed to head coach Eric Chelle was addressed. Officials also reviewed the Super Eagles’ upcoming friendly match against Egypt. This game, scheduled for next week in Cairo, is expected to be the team’s final major test before heading to Morocco for AFCON.

The nation’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign also featured prominently in the talks. NFF members stressed the importance of avoiding past missteps. They are keen to ensure a smoother path forward in the qualifiers.

Absent Officials

Two senior NFF officials were notably absent from the high-stakes meeting. Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, the NFF’s second vice chairman, and Chief Anyansi-Agwu did not attend. Elegbeleye was reportedly on official duty in Saudi Arabia at the time.

AFCON Squad Announcement Faces External Pressure

The most pressing issue causing tension within the federation is the ongoing delay in announcing the final AFCON squad. A senior source close to the NFF revealed the underlying reason for this hold-up. The source clarified that the delay is not due to administrative hurdles.

Instead, the source indicated that external pressures are at play. “Some powerful interests are pushing for the inclusion of some players on the final squad,” the source explained. “That is what has delayed the announcement of the final squad, nothing more, nothing less.”

This revelation suggests that the final selection process is facing significant influence from outside the immediate technical and administrative teams. The NFF now faces the challenge of navigating these pressures while ensuring the best possible squad is assembled for AFCON glory.