Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has released a passionate statement following the Super Eagles boycott training in Morocco due to unpaid bonuses from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The Super Eagles boycott training incident has sparked widespread anger among Nigerians ahead of the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Gabon.
The Nigerian national team was scheduled to train in Rabat, Morocco, on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, in preparation for their play-off game against the Panthers of Gabon at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. However, the session was called off after players and staff refused to take part, protesting unpaid bonuses and allowances allegedly owed since 2019.
According to reports from the London Evening Standard, the boycott was a direct response to the NFF’s persistent failure to fulfill financial promises made to the team. This development has once again put Nigerian football authorities under intense scrutiny, with many fans and commentators accusing the NFF of gross mismanagement and lack of accountability.
Peter Obi’s Reaction to Super Eagles Boycott
In a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Peter Obi expressed deep disappointment over the situation, describing it as yet another example of Nigeria’s misplaced priorities. Referencing the phrase “disgraced country” once used by former U.S. President Donald Trump to describe Nigeria, Obi lamented the continuous neglect of those who serve the nation with pride and commitment.
“It is truly unfortunate that our Super Eagles, who consistently give their best to represent our dear nation, are being owed their allowances,” Obi wrote. “We always seem to find money to waste on needless lavish spending and political patronage, yet we cannot pay those who patriotically raise our flag, bring us pride, and serve with dedication. That is what is found in a now disgraced country.”
His statement, which quickly gained traction across social media platforms, struck a chord with many Nigerians who share similar frustrations about the state of public institutions and the recurring issues of unpaid wages in sports and other sectors.
Obi further stressed that failing to reward national service sends the wrong message to the country’s youth. He emphasized that athletes who represent Nigeria on the global stage deserve dignity, prompt payment, and respect for their contributions. “When those who serve their country are not treated with dignity, it sends the wrong message to our youth that hard work and service are not rewarded,” he added.
Widespread Reactions and Implications
The Super Eagles boycott training has reignited conversations about the poor treatment of Nigerian athletes and the recurring financial controversies that have plagued the NFF for years. While some Nigerians sympathized with the players, arguing that they have every right to demand their entitlements, others criticized the timing of their protest, noting that it could affect team morale ahead of such an important qualifier.
Some of the Comments on X
@Dikawoundu “Nigeria has money for the following 1. Terrorists. 2. Propaganda. 3. Data boys 4. Detty December Etc Nigeria doesn’t have money for 1. Salaries & wages of civil servants 2. Salaries & wages of sport men & women 3. individuals who need loans & grants. Etc”
@dm_042 “I can’t wait to celebrate @PeterObi as my president, you are the true leader we need at this point. I know you must rule Nigeria and prove to Nigerian that this country is a great nation just that our formal leaders don’t want it. God bless you Sir “
@myleekreal “Rest my bro, if you were elected too you will do the same or even worse… you always attracted to bad news says it all”
@abazwhyllzz “This is so sad. Since I was born I’ve always been hearing of NFF owing salaries and this is 2025 it’s still an issue. Maybe fifa should just bán nigeria let’s all rest.”
@tunisky “When are you lending your voice to Wike and the naval officer bruhaha. Because na everything wey your eye see you dey put mouth.“
Sports analysts also warn that the situation could harm Nigeria’s chances of securing qualification for the 2026 World Cup if not resolved promptly. They urged the NFF and the Ministry of Sports to act swiftly and restore trust between the players and football authorities.
Peter Obi’s statement has added a political and moral dimension to the debate, calling on leaders to prioritize accountability and fairness in governance. His use of the term “disgraced country” echoed the sentiments of many Nigerians who feel disillusioned by the persistent neglect of national heroes.
As the Super Eagles boycott training saga continues to unfold, many are hoping that the authorities will settle the players’ dues and ensure Nigeria avoids another embarrassing international incident that tarnishes its football reputation.