THE National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) have confirmed that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has been given an improved contract as well as expanded responsibilities as U-23 national team boss.
The sports bodies met in Abuja this week and reached major decisions, including a plan to massively increase the prize money for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
“Led by NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade, alongside NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau and key football stakeholders, the meeting produced far-reaching decisions aimed at strengthening the football ecosystem from grassroots to elite level,” the NSC said in a statement.
“Among the landmark resolutions reached were plans to introduce a N2.5 billion prize fund for the 2026/2027 Nigeria Premier Football League season, with league champions set to earn at least N1 billion, while second and third-place teams will receive N500 million and N300 million respectively.
“The meeting also agreed on measures to improve player welfare, strengthen club licensing compliance, return the domestic league to television screens, and create a more attractive environment for private sector investment in football.
“In line with the long-term vision for Nigerian football development, the NSC and NFF also agreed on improved contract terms for Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle, who will additionally oversee the U-23 National Team as part of efforts to establish continuity across the national team structure.”
The NSC added that attention was equally focused on women’s football, with both institutions reaffirming their commitment to supporting the Super Falcons’ Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title defence while driving new funding initiatives and reforms for women’s football.
