The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has declined to comment on reports that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has made a series of fresh demands as negotiations over a contract extension continue.
The Malian coach, who still has several months remaining on the deal he signed in 2025, is reportedly seeking improved terms in order to extend his stay.
According to UK-based journalist Shina Oludare, Chelle’s requests include an increase in his monthly salary from $50,000 (£39,000) to $130,000, the provision of a private SUV with a chauffeur and security detail, and accommodation in a secure area with reliable electricity supply.
Why Eric Chelle is considered to replace De Zerbi at Olympique Marseille
He is also said to have asked for a furnished office equipped with a projector for tactical analysis, flight tickets for his wife and two children, and for his personal assistant to be included in the team’s bonus and allowance structure.
When contacted by Footy-Africa, NFF head of media and communications Demola Olajire said he had not been briefed on the reported demands.
“I’m not aware of these demands and I have not been briefed about them. That’s all I can say about it,” Olajire said.
Negotiations over a new contract are understood to have begun a few weeks after the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, where Nigeria’s performances strengthened Chelle’s position.
In January, Nigeria Sports Commission (NSC) director-general Bukola Olopade told Footy-Africa that the former Mali coach would be offered an improved deal and was happy to remain in charge.
NSC boss Olopade confirms Chelle’s extension talks, defends Osimhen
However, reports have linked Chelle with other positions in recent weeks. He was said to be among the candidates considered by Ligue 1 side Marseille following the departure of Roberto De Zerbi, although the French club instead appointed former Senegal international Habib Beye.
There has also been reported interest from Angola, Tunisia and Gabon.
Chelle has recently parted ways with his former agent, Abraham Sidibe — who brokered his appointment with Nigeria — and is now represented by Marseille-based agency Wilders Sport.
Speaking to UK-based journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, Chelle explained his decision.
“It is time for me to take myself to another level. I felt that this agency will give me the required support and advice that I need to do this,” he said.
A source close to the NFF suggested the speculation may be part of wider negotiations.
“A lot has been said in the media since the Nations Cup ended in Morocco,” the source exclusively told Footy-Africa. “From the reported interest from Tunisia, who have appointed a new coach, to Olympique Marseille, who also named someone else — maybe these are just tactics. It happens in football and we have seen it several times.
He is a good coach and we saw that during AFCON. The federation would like to continue and the NSC too. The players are also behind him. But the NFF works within a budget like every organisation, and I’m not sure they will enter into an agreement they cannot fullfil.”
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Chelle is expected to name his squad for next month’s international window, during which Nigeria are scheduled to face Jordan in a friendly between 23 and 31 March.
