NSC DG Confirms Contract Talks With Super Eagles Boss Eric Chelle Amid World Cup Qualification Failure

The Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC) confirmed ongoing contract extension discussions with Eric Chelle, the head coach of the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles. Chelle, who took charge midway through his two-year contract signed in January 2025, failed to guide Nigeria to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The primary objective set when he was appointed was to at least reach the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. However, Nigeria was eliminated in the tournament's early stages in 2023.

Despite this, Chelle has received overwhelming support from the Nigerian public due to the team's progress under his leadership. The NSC DG, Bukola Olopad, confirmed in an interview that discussions with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) regarding Chelle's contract extension have taken place.

The decision on Chelle's future with the team is pending, with Nigeria's participation in the World Cup playoffs against DR Congo being a crucial factor. Augustine Eguavoen, the NFF's technical director, expressed disappointment over Nigeria's early exit from the AFCON 2025 but praised the team's efforts.