The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has moved swiftly to secure the future of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, agreeing to a new long-term contract that will keep the Franco-Malian tactician in charge until 2030.
The extension comes amid growing reports that the Algerian Football Federation had identified Chelle as a leading candidate to take over the Desert Foxes following their disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. However, Nigeria’s football authorities acted quickly to fend off the interest by finalising improved contract terms for the coach.
The new agreement reportedly includes a significant salary increase, improved welfare for Chelle’s backroom staff and expanded responsibilities. In addition to managing the Super Eagles, the 48-year-old will also oversee Nigeria’s U-23 men’s national team as part of a long-term strategy to strengthen the country’s football development pipeline ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
National Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko confirmed that negotiations had been concluded after high-level meetings with NFF officials, describing Chelle as a key figure in Nigeria’s long-term football project. Formal documentation is expected to be completed shortly.
Since taking charge of the Super Eagles in 2025, Chelle has earned praise for rebuilding the team’s identity and guiding Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. His attacking style and emphasis on youth development have won over many supporters, making him one of the federation’s top priorities despite interest from abroad.
The contract extension is expected to provide stability as Nigeria prepares for the next AFCON campaign and begins planning for the 2030 World Cup cycle. By securing Chelle’s future, the NFF has sent a strong message that continuity and long-term planning remain central to the Super Eagles’ ambitions.
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