NSC paying Chelle’s salary – Dikko

The National Sports Commission has been paying Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle’s salary on behalf of the Nigeria Football Federation, NSC chairman Shehu Dikko has disclosed, The PUNCH reports.

Dikko made the revelation during an interview with Arise Television on Monday, explaining that the commission has been covering the Malian’s wages despite not being party to his contract.

“The NSC have been paying the salaries of Eric Chelle (Super Eagles coach) on behalf of the NFF even though we’re not a party to the contract,” Dikko said.

“This is part of our support to the NFF.”

Chelle was reported to be owed three months’ salary and bonuses by the NFF ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, which kicks off on December 21.

However, a top NFF official confirmed to The PUNCH last week that the coach would be paid his outstanding salaries soon.

“Eric came to see us, and we explained the processes. His money will be paid. We have paid him even ahead before, and this time, we are waiting for cash backing from finance,” the source said.

In May, Dikko revealed that the NSC made provisions for the upfront payment of Chelle’s salary until October through a presidentially endorsed support group.

Chelle, who was appointed in January, concluded Nigeria’s ill-fated 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign after the Super Eagles lost on penalties to DR Congo in the play-off final in November.

The Super Eagles will compete in Group C at AFCON 2025 alongside Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania, with their opening match against Tanzania scheduled for December 23 in Fès.

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