Nigeria’s National Sports Commission (NSC) will in the coming days open formal contract extension talks with Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle following an impressive campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Chelle’s current contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is set to expire in the coming months, prompting the NSC to move early in order to secure continuity and build on the progress recorded under his leadership.
The commission believes stability on the bench is key as Nigeria looks ahead to future continental and global competitions.
The Franco-Malian tactician oversaw a highly productive AFCON campaign in Morocco, where Nigeria finished third overall. The Super Eagles delivered an eye-catching attacking display, scoring 35 goals and conceding just 13, while setting a new tournament benchmark with 14 goals in a single AFCON edition. Chelle’s side also kept four clean sheets and completed the tournament unbeaten, underlining both their offensive firepower and defensive organization.
Speaking on the situation, NSC Director General Bukola Olopade confirmed that discussions are already underway behind the scenes.
“I had dinner with him two days ago,” Olopade revealed. “That same night, I called the NFF president. Hopefully by Tuesday or Wednesday, we will all sit down together.”
Olopade also played down speculation linking Chelle with a potential move abroad, insisting that the coach remains fully committed to the Super Eagles project.
“Eric Chelle is not going anywhere,” he said, while highlighting the strength of the current squad, adding that Nigeria now boasts “surplus quality across all departments.”
Reflecting on the decision to back Chelle, Olopade expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “Today, I am glad our conviction paid off,” as Nigeria positions itself to continue its upward trajectory under the coach’s guidance.
