The Nigerian senior men’s team, the Super Eagles, were forced to abandon their Tuesday training session at the Rive Hotel in Rabat amid a dispute over unpaid bonuses and allowances, according to multiple reports from local journalists and team insiders.

In a brief statement jointly issued by the players and officials, the squad confirmed that the entire delegation, including backroom staff, refused to take to the pitch because of unresolved financial obligations dating back several months.

“The full squad including officials withheld from training today in Morocco because of the unresolved issues with outstanding payments,” the statement read.

The controversy erupts just two days before the team’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff semi‑final against Gabon at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium.

The match is seen as a decisive step toward securing a place in the expanded World Cup, co‑hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Nigeria’s football authorities have been under pressure to settle arrears that include appearance fees and bonuses from recent AFCON qualifiers and the ongoing World Cup qualifying campaign.

Victor Osimhen, who arrived in Rabat on Tuesday, had been expected to boost morale, yet the protest overshadowed his presence.

Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is still slated to join the camp, and coach Eric Chelle now faces the urgent task of reconciling the squad before Thursday’s showdown.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has yet to release an official communiqué, though sources indicate emergency negotiations are underway to address the financial impasse.

The boycott echoes past crises, such as the 2013 Confederations Cup and 2014 World Cup disputes, highlighting persistent governance challenges within Nigerian football.

The development has sparked widespread criticism on social media, with fans expressing frustration over recurring administrative hurdles.

Former national team captain John Mikel Obi warned against complacency, urging the Eagles to stay focused despite the off‑field distractions.

The team is expected to resume preparations on Wednesday, pending a resolution, while Gabon’s side remains confident ahead of the clash.

The outcome of the Rabat fixture could determine Nigeria’s path to the 2026 World Cup finals in North America.