Fresh controversy has engulfed Nigerian football following reports of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle's significant demands to remain in charge of the national team. Chelle, a Malian tactician, is said to have tabled a proposal that includes a monthly salary increase to $130,000 (or €130,000), alongside additional benefits such as accommodation, a vehicle, guaranteed power supply, travel arrangements for his family, and greater authority over football operations. These reported demands, specifically 19 conditions, have triggered sharp reactions and division across the Nigerian football community.

Ahmed Shuaibu Gara-Gombe, a former Gombe State FA chairman, has been particularly vocal in his criticism, questioning both the timing and substance of Chelle's reported requests. Speaking to The Guardian and Soccernet.ng, Gara-Gombe argued that the Super Eagles brand is more significant than any individual coach, suggesting that the national team has elevated Chelle's profile rather than the other way around. He accused Chelle of attempting to 'blackmail' Nigeria, stating that the demands are 'ridiculous' and that the Super Eagles are 'too big for Chelle'.

Gara-Gombe also expressed skepticism regarding rumored links to other clubs, including Olympique de Marseille, Algeria, and FC Nantes. He claimed Chelle 'just created a phantom story around Olympique Marseille' and other potential suitors to strengthen his negotiating position. According to Gara-Gombe, Chelle's perceived impact on the Super Eagles is minimal, attributing the team's successes to the brilliance of the players. He warned that agreeing to these terms would lead to Nigeria regretting the decision, asserting, 'If he wants to go, let him go. I have not seen any impact he made on the Super Eagles.'

The controversy arises only weeks after Chelle guided Nigeria to a third-place finish at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Despite falling short of the objective to reach the final, the Super Eagles impressed many observers with an attacking style of football, scoring 14 goals, the highest in the tournament. Following this campaign, both the Nigeria Football Federation and the National Sports Commission had indicated a willingness to keep Chelle and explore a contract extension. Before his role with Nigeria, Chelle’s most prominent position was managing Mali, and he had previously worked mainly with lower-division clubs in France.