In the World Cup play-off, Nigeria will face a crucial match against Gabon tomorrow. However, ahead of this decisive clash, the players have refused to attend training due to unpaid bonuses spanning nearly two years.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) attempted to intervene in the crisis and took swift action, but their efforts have so far been unsuccessful, as the players rejected the federation’s proposal.
The situation has since escalated, prompting the National Sports Commission under the Ministry of Sports to step in to seek a resolution. Discussions were held with the players, but no concrete agreement was reached.
Another meeting between the players and the ministry is expected before today’s scheduled training session, with hopes of finding a last-minute solution.
This crisis poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s World Cup campaign, as a defeat against Gabon—or later against the winner of the DR Congo vs Cameroon tie—would end their hopes of qualifying for the tournament.