The National Sports Commission (NSC) has dismissed concerns over the future of Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle, insisting the Franco-Malian remains fully committed to Nigeria despite speculation linking him with the Algeria national team job and clubs in North Africa.
Fresh uncertainty had emerged after reports revealed that Chelle was yet to sign the improved contract offered to him by the NSC and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), even though negotiations had been concluded.
The speculation intensified amid claims that the Algeria Football Federation and several North African clubs were monitoring the 48-year-old following his impressive start with the Super Eagles.
However, NSC Director General Bukola Olopade said the delay in signing the new deal was purely procedural and not an indication that Chelle was considering leaving Nigeria.
Olopade said: “Before contracts are signed on paper, you must have done a great deal of work to solidify all ends.
“It’s a renewed contract, which means it’s an existing one. We have agreed, so I am sure that the Nigeria Football Federation will conclude the documentation as soon as possible.”
Olopade also dismissed suggestions that interest from other countries could lure the former Mali coach away from the Super Eagles.
“Eric is a gentleman, so all the stories about other countries looking for him do not hold water. I’ve sat with him and I know he is not bothered by all those rumours.”
Chelle has managed 25 matches since taking charge of the Super Eagles, including 15 competitive fixtures.
Chelle has recorded 10 wins in regulation time from his 15 competitive matches in charge of the Super Eagles.
His other results include a penalty shootout victory over Egypt in the third-place match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, as well as penalty shootout defeats to DR Congo in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying play-off final and Morocco in the semi-finals of the 2025 AFCON.
He also drew against South Africa and Zimbabwe during Nigeria’s unsuccessful 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
His current contract expires at the end of the year, with the proposed extension expected to include improved financial terms and enhanced technical support.
Chelle had reportedly requested a monthly salary of $130,000, but the NSC is understood to have offered $100,000 while taking responsibility for the salaries of his backroom staff.
The new arrangement is also expected to place him in charge of Nigeria’s Under-23 men’s team ahead of the football competition at the 2028 Olympic Games.
The coach has also reaffirmed his commitment to the Super Eagles despite the recent speculation.
“I try to do my job and I want to say thank you for all the support.
“If I have some time, I will give everything for this national team.
“Every day I try to improve as a man and as a coach too,” Chelle said during Nigeria’s international friendlies in June.
“I want to say sorry again because we didn’t go to the World Cup and that we didn’t win the AFCON.”
