Pay cut hits Super Eagles backroom staff

The Nigeria Football Federation NFF is reportedly reducing the bonuses and allowances of the Super Eagles’ backroom staff, along with those of other national teams. A committee composed of key NFF Executive Committee members recently reviewed the earnings of these staff members during national duties.

This initiative is part of a broader cost-saving strategy by the financially struggling football federation. Ironically, this decision follows a policy reversal where the NFF had earlier eliminated the team coordinator role to cut costs, only to reinstate it.

The committee also seeks to reorganise the support teams for various national squads, with some members reportedly having overstayed their tenure.

It’s important to note that the NFF still owes unpaid bonuses and allowances to the Super Eagles, dating back to 2021. The Flying Eagles and Golden Eaglets are also awaiting their payments, despite the Federal Government releasing funds for this purpose.

Editorial

The NFF’s decision to cut the bonuses and allowances of the Super Eagles’ backroom staff raises broader questions about the sustainability of Nigerian football management. While the federation faces constant financial strain, reducing payments to vital staff risks undermining team morale and performance. This step, although part of a cost cutting measure, could have long-term consequences on the backroom support system that is crucial to the national team’s success.

We cannot overlook the inconsistency shown by the NFF in reversing previous cost saving decisions, such as the elimination and subsequent reinstatement of the team coordinator role. This kind of policy somersault reflects a lack of cohesive long term planning and further puts financial strain on a federation already struggling to pay bonuses from as far back as 2021.

It’s imperative that while cost cutting measures are necessary, they should be balanced against the needs of the national teams and their performance. Cutting backroom staff wages while leaving higher ups relatively unaffected could create discontent and reduce motivation. We must also ask why funds released by the Federal Government are not being utilised properly to pay the outstanding dues of players and staff.

As a footballing nation, Nigeria must find a sustainable solution to the NFF’s financial problems without continuously sacrificing the very people who keep the teams running smoothly. We believe that a more transparent and strategic approach is required to prevent recurring issues, ensuring both backroom staff and players receive fair treatment.

Did You Know?

1. The NFF has faced numerous financial crises over the years, often struggling to meet the payment obligations for coaches and staff.
2. The role of backroom staff, including medical and support personnel, is crucial in ensuring the physical and mental well being of players during competitions.
3. Nigeria’s national teams have historically had strong support from the federal government, yet payment delays have been a recurring issue.
4. In 2021, the NFF considered bringing in foreign experts to assist with certain national team roles, sparking debates over the costs involved.
5. The NFF has previously been sanctioned by FIFA for financial mismanagement, further complicating its ability to secure steady funding.