The future of Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle had been a contention with the Malian in the final months of his deal with the NFF, but a recent announcement by the Federation confirmed an agreement in principle had been struck between the parties.
Reacting to the news, former technical committee member NFF scribe Austel Elumelu has applauded the decision to hand Chelle a new deal.
According to sources, the extension will keep the 48-year-old in charge until 2030 and Elumelu insists it was well deserved.
Speaking with Brila.net Elumelu said: “For me they’ve gotten this one right by giving a long contract.” He continued, “if they will not interfere that will be a good development.”
“If you see what he has done, having failed to qualify (for the World Cup) all those matches we have played he has been able to try new players.
“I give them kudos they’ve done the right thing, let’s hope they can sustain it.”
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Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Eric Chelle in-charge of eight WCQ matches including the Continental playoff final which Nigeria lost on penalties to DR Congo.
He also led the team to the semi-final of the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.
Eric Chelle had openly disclosed his desire to stay on as Super Eagles coach at the AFCON, and subsequently submitted a list of demands to the NFF including a $150,000 monthly salary increase.
If Chelle pens the contract extension as Super Eagles gaffer, he will also be in-charge of the U23 National team and their immediate task will be to qualify for the 2026 Los Angeles Summer Olympic Games.
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