Nigeria extend Eric Chelle’s contract, give him Olympic Eagles role

Nigeria have extended the contract of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle and expanded his responsibilities to include overseeing the country’s Under-23 team, the Olympic Eagles.

The decision was reached during a meeting between the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in Abuja.

As part of the new agreement, Chelle will receive an improved salary package, while the NSC will also cover the wages of his assistant coaches. Reports suggest his monthly earnings could rise from $45,000 to about $100,000, although officials have not confirmed the exact figures.

NSC chairman Shehu Dikko said the government wants to reward Chelle’s work and provide better support for his technical crew.

Chelle was appointed Super Eagles coach in January 2025 with the goal of qualifying Nigeria for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Although the team fell short after losing to DR Congo in the final playoff, the NFF retained confidence in him.

Under his leadership, Nigeria finished third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and won consecutive Unity Cup titles in 2025 and 2026.

Since taking charge, Chelle has recorded 16 wins, nine draws and only two defeats in 27 matches. The Super Eagles have also remained unbeaten in regulation time in competitive fixtures during his tenure.

Beyond the senior national team, Chelle will now oversee the Olympic Eagles as Nigeria begins preparations for qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. Officials believe having one coach supervise both teams will help create a smoother transition for young players moving into the senior squad.

Dikko described the move as a long-term development plan aimed at building a stronger future for Nigerian football.