NSC DG Olopade: We Won’t Allow Chelle to Leave Super Eagles
Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has assured Nigerians that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle will not be allowed to leave, despite interest from other African nations.
Olopade revealed that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is close to finalizing an improved contract for the Malian tactician, who guided the Eagles to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Chelle’s attacking brand of football won plaudits during the tournament, with Nigeria scoring the most goals (14) and showcasing one of the most entertaining styles of play.
His success has attracted attention from Tunisia, Gabon, and Angola, all of whom are reportedly offering him deals more lucrative than the $50,000 monthly salary he currently earns.
Speaking in an interview with Brila FM, Olopade described Chelle as ‘God-fearing’ and committed to Nigeria, stressing that the coach values the faith shown in him when many doubted his appointment.
‘His first choice, second choice and third choice is Nigeria. Eric Chelle is a God-fearing man. He knows that the entire administrative apparatus is firm with him. When a few people were skeptical, we had confidence in him and that has shown in the way he’s coached the team,’ Olopade said.
He further emphasized the NSC’s role in guiding the NFF through negotiations: ‘On our own part, we wouldn’t allow such a sound and intelligent coach to go. The future of the Super Eagles is actually very bright.
‘With a coach like Eric Chelle, the sky isn’t the limit. I can tell you that we are on the verge of negotiating a better deal and better contract with him, that will keep him here. When I say we, I mean the NFF, we will just give them guidance at the NSC.’
