By Dalena Reporters — Rabat, Morocco / Abuja, Nigeria — 12 November 2025
The Nigeria national football team have resolved a longstanding dispute over unpaid bonuses, allowing them to refocus on their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifying playoff against Gabon national football team, scheduled for this Thursday in Morocco.
According to captain William Troost‑Ekong, the issue — which led the squad to boycott training on Tuesday — has been “resolved”. He made the announcement on social media, stating:
“Issue resolved. We are together and as before focussed on the games ahead!”
Details on the agreement, including the quantum and timing of payments, were not disclosed. The dispute stemmed from unpaid bonuses reportedly dating back to 2019 and including compensation tied to recent competitions.
The training boycott threatened to derail Nigeria’s preparation for the playoff — a match that could propel them into the inter-continental qualifiers in March and ultimately toward a place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
With the matter now officially settled — at least for the moment — the Super Eagles enter the camp in Rabat on a more stable footing. Observers warn, however, that the incident highlights deeper structural issues within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) regarding player welfare and contractual transparency.
As the squad prepares for the match against Gabon, the message from the pitch is clear: the distractions are over, but the pressure remains.
Dalena Reporters — Where facts meet clarity and consequence.