Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has made a commitment to personally settle outstanding bonus payments owed to Nigeria’s players and staff if authorities fail to do so before Saturday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarterfinal clash against Algeria.
The development was revealed by BBC journalist Oluwashina Okeleji, who had earlier reported that the Super Eagles squad and officials were yet to receive winning bonuses for the four matches they have played at the tournament so far.
Taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, Okeleji disclosed that the Besiktas midfielder has been working behind the scenes to ensure the issue does not derail Nigeria’s preparations.
“BONUS UPDATE: ‘I’ve been pushing the team to train and play the game vs Algeria. I’ve been doing this since the second game. I’ve now made a commitment to the staff & players that I’ll personally pay the bonuses if the authority fail to before Saturday,’” Okeleji quoted Ndidi as saying.
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According to the veteran journalist, Ndidi has pleaded with his teammates to remain focused, train in Marrakesh on Thursday and play the quarterfinal fixture against Algeria on Saturday, despite the unresolved financial concerns.
“I don’t want this unpaid bonuses to affect our preparations. I told players & coaching staff that I’d personally make the payments if they don’t get it,” Ndidi reportedly added.
Okeleji further noted that since Nigeria’s win over Tunisia, which sealed their place in the round of 16, Ndidi and other senior players have consistently urged the squad to stay united and focused on the tournament. The captain reportedly informed senior players of his personal commitment before addressing the entire squad, with the Super Eagles expected to continue training in Marrakesh.
Meanwhile, there appears to be movement from the authorities. The Federal Government, alongside Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), have confirmed that the disbursement of the outstanding match bonuses for players and coaching staff is now at an advanced stage.
With Nigeria enjoying a perfect run so far at AFCON 2025, supporters will be hoping the bonus issue is swiftly resolved to eliminate distractions, as the Super Eagles set their sights on a semifinal place when they face Algeria at the Stade de Marrakech on Saturday.
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