Nigerian journalist Austin Okon-Akpan has dismissed circulating reports alleging that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle submitted a 19-point list of conditions for a contract extension.
Taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Okon-Akpan wrote:
Eric Chelle’s 19-point conditions for a contract extension is ridiculous.
My sources in the Nigeria Football Federation have confirmed it is FALSE.
VERIFY!
While he did not disclose the identity of his source, he insisted that contacts within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) have denied the authenticity of the reported demands.
The alleged 19-point list, which has been widely shared across social media, sparked heated reactions among fans and analysts. Some critics described the demands as excessive, while others argued that many of the items appeared to be basic professional requirements for a national team manager.
Softfootball’s earlier analysis suggested that several of the listed items, including timely salary payment, internet provision, analysis equipment, scouting travel, and non-interference in team selection align with global professional standards.
For reference, here are the 19 points that have circulated online:
- Private car (SUV) with a chauffeur and security.
- House in a well secured environment with 24hrs uninterrupted power supply (electricity).
- Furnished office with projector for analysis.
- Internet provision.
- Flight tickets for wife and two children (Eric and wife Business class) children economy.
- GPS provision.
- Supply of proper equipment in accordance to the coach’s demand.
- Based on opponents, the coach has the right of choice regarding int’l friendly matches.
- Camping programs.
- The coach will initiate programs for youth development.
- Provision for the coach to travel, watch, monitor and engage players of the national teams abroad.
- Provision for the coach to travel to watch the local league to identify potential players that will be integrated in to senior national team, A U23, U20 and U17.
- No Interference in team selection and players call up.
- The NFF has to issue a working contract for my staffs.
- Salary needs to be paid on or before 30th of every month.
- Bonus and allowance as per federation structure.
- Request to include my PA in the bonus and allowance structure.
- Proposed salary of $130,000.00 (One hundred and thirty thousand dollars) monthly. The amount included all my technical staffs and PA.
- Monthly meeting with all the national team coaches.
Despite Okon-Akpan’s clarification, public discussion continues, highlighting broader concerns about transparency, contract standards, and working conditions within Nigerian football administration.
As of now, there has been no official statement directly from the NFF or Eric Chelle addressing the claims. Softfootball will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more verified information emerges.
