- Eric Chelle will remain Super Eagles coach after a new deal
- He will also handle Nigeria’s U-23 team
- The move aims to link youth and senior teams
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has confirmed that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle will remain in his position following the conclusion of a new agreement between all parties involved.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the decision was announced on Tuesday by NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko after a meeting in Abuja involving officials of the Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), where issues concerning the future structure of Nigeria’s national football teams were discussed.
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Chelle, who signed an initial two-year contract running until the end of 2026, had been in negotiations with authorities over improved terms following Nigeria’s third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
During the discussions, reports had suggested that the Malian coach sought an improved salary package, including provisions covering his technical crew.
Dikko confirmed that a fresh agreement had now been reached, which includes improved remuneration and enhanced support for the coaching staff.
He also disclosed that Chelle’s role has been expanded to include responsibility for Nigeria’s U-23 national team, in addition to his duties with the senior squad.
According to him, the decision was made to ensure continuity between both teams and to strengthen the pathway for young players progressing into the Super Eagles setup.
The NSC explained that the arrangement forms part of broader planning ahead of upcoming international competitions, including preparations for the men’s football event at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Dikko further noted that the expanded role is not intended to overload the coach, but to create a unified structure for national team development.
Chelle is expected to lead efforts to rebuild the U-23 side, which has struggled in recent years after failing to qualify for the last two Olympic Games.
His dual mandate now places him at the centre of Nigeria’s long-term football rebuilding programme across both senior and youth levels.
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