The International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPRO) says it has stepped in to assist the Super Falcons over a bonus payment dispute the players have with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
There is uncertainty over the Nigerian football governing body’s willingness to pay the bonuses the players are entitled to from a $960,000 payment global football governing body FIFA paid to each of the 32 participating football associations towards preparation for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
This led to a row between Falcons coach Randy Waldrum and the NFF before the tournament commenced with uncertainty on the player’s participation. With the players fulfilling their obligation in taking to the pitch, FIFPRO is now calling on the NFF to do their own part.
“Following the Nigeria women’s national team’s elimination from the FIFA Women’s World Cup, FIFPRO can confirm it is assisting players in a disagreement with the Nigeria Football Federation concerning bonus payments, camp allowances and expenses, some of which date back to 2021,” read a statement on the FIFPRO website.
“During the World Cup, the players expressed the desire to remain focused on their performance without making public statements or facing other distractions.
“However, the Super Falcons believe that it is now time for the Nigeria Football Federation to honour their commitments and pay the outstanding amounts.
“The team is extremely frustrated that they have had to pursue the Nigeria Football Federation for these payments before and during the tournament and may have to continue doing so afterwards. It is regrettable that players needed to challenge their own federation at such an important time in their careers.
“FIFPRO will continue to work with the players to ensure their contractual rights are honoured and the outstanding payments are settled.”
#FIFPRO statement on behalf of Nigeria women's national team: pic.twitter.com/90zipIUWK0
— FIFPRO (@FIFPRO) August 8, 2023
The Super Falcons went through the 2023 Women’s World Cup group stage unbeaten before losing to England on penalties in the round of 16.
