Peter Obi Calls Nigeria a ‘Now Disgraced Country’ Over Super Eagles’ Unpaid Allowances

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has sharply criticized Nigeria over the Super Eagles’ unpaid allowances, describing the situation as a reflection of a “now disgraced country.”

The players and officials of the national football team boycotted their scheduled evening training session on Tuesday, demanding payment for qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2026 World Cup playoff.

Obi, reacting on X (formerly Twitter), said the delay in payment is “unfortunate” and highlights a pattern of government mismanagement: “We always seem to find money to waste on needless lavish spending and political patronage,” he wrote.

Players Demand Dignity and Respect

Obi stressed that failing to compensate those who serve the nation sends a damaging message to young Nigerians: that hard work and service go unrewarded. “Those who represent Nigeria deserve to be paid promptly and treated with respect. We must do better,” he added.

The Super Eagles are preparing to play Gabon in a semi-final match for the 2026 African World Cup playoffs on Thursday. The winner will face either DR Congo or Cameroon in the final to secure the sole slot to represent Africa at the intercontinental playoff. However, players are expected to withhold training until the outstanding allowances are addressed.

Read also: Super Eagles Halt Training in Morocco Over Unpaid Bonuses

Obi’s comment echoes concerns raised internationally, with US President Donald Trump recently calling Nigeria a “now disgraced country” in a separate context over alleged Christian persecution. Analysts say delayed payments to athletes reflect broader issues in Nigeria’s governance and financial management, calling for urgent reforms to ensure accountability in sports administration.

As the semi-final approaches, attention will not only be on the Eagles’ performance but also on how the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) resolves the payment dispute, with public scrutiny mounting on the treatment of national team players.