Nigeria have opened negotiations aimed at extending Eric Chelle’s stay as head coach of the Super Eagles, following the Malian’s impressive Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
According to Footy Africa Eric Chelle held a closed-door meeting with senior officials of the National Sports Commission (NSC) in Abuja on Tuesday, fuelling expectations that a new deal could soon be agreed.
Chelle and members of his entourage were received by NSC chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko, with discussions believed to have centred on the coach’s future and continuity in the Super Eagles’ technical setup.
The talks reportedly lasted several hours and ended on an optimistic note, with further negotiations expected in the coming days.
Eric Chelle. Photo Credit: Imago
Nigeria’s sports authorities have made little secret of their desire to retain the 47-year-old, who has attracted interest from other African nations following his recent success.
Speaking earlier to Footy Africa, Director General of the National Sports Commission Bukola Olopade confirmed that extending Chelle’s contract is part of the commission’s plans for 2026.
“We have a list of many things we want to achieve in 2026, and extending Chelle’s contract is also on that list. He’s not going anywhere because he’s happy here,” Olopade said.
Olopade and Chelle. Photo Credit: NSC/X
Chelle was appointed Super Eagles head coach in January 2025 on a two-year deal and has since overseen a notable upturn in results.
At the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Nigeria finished third, going unbeaten in regulation time throughout the tournament.
The Super Eagles won five matches and drew two, losing only on penalties to hosts Morocco in the semi-finals before defeating Egypt to claim the bronze medal.
Super Eagles Technical bench led by Eric Chelle. Photo Credit: Getty Images
Speaking to The Guardian journalist Osasu Obayiuwana after the tournament NFF President Musa Gusau said the coach’s deal was not yet due for review.
“There will be no contract extension discussion with Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles head coach, for now,” Gusau said.
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“We signed a two-year deal with him in January 2025. He is only halfway through his contract. In the last six months of his current deal, we can start to look at things.”
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Since taking charge, Chelle has led Nigeria in 17 competitive matches without defeat, winning 11 and drawing six. Under his leadership, the Super Eagles scored a record 14 goals at the Morocco AFCON and remained unbeaten in regulation time across all seven matches.
