Former Super Eagles midfielder Garuba Lawal, has expressed fears over Nigeria’s ability to sustain the $100,000 monthly salary promised Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle in his new expanded contract. Lawal, who is not opposed to giving the coach an improved package, said the only headache lies in sustaining it.
“This is very good for Nigeria,” Garba Lawal said in quotes revealed by Brila FM.
“Eric Chelle can call up players who perform very well in the Olympics. I only fear that Nigeria cannot sustain that $100,000 payment” said the former Roda JC of Netherland’s midfielder.
Chelle saw his contract extended for another four years by the Nigeria Sports Commission two days ago with many reacting to the pros and cons of the decision including that of having him oversee the U-23 team at the same time.
The 48-year-old was announced as the coach of the Nigerian National team in January 2025, initially joining on a two-year deal and was tasked with leading the three-time AFCON Champions to the World Cup after a dreadful start from their previous two coaches.
Chelle managed to steady Nigeria, sealing four wins from six qualifier games to help seal a play-off spot. While they defeated Gabon in the semi-final, they ultimately fell short against DR Congo.
After winning a bronze medal at the AFCON 2025 tournament in Morocco, the Super Eagles coach petitioned for a new deal, demanding a $130,000 monthly salary, an upgrade from the $50,000 he used to earn, which also covered the wages of his assistants.
NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko, announced that the contract of the former RC Lens defender will be extended until 2030. Alongside, he’ll take charge of the Nigerian U-23 team, with the sole aim of guiding the team to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
