Former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi revealed that the Nigeria Football Federation failed to pay players their 2018 World Cup qualification bonuses despite repeated assurances. Mikel stated that while FIFA provides funds to federations, the money never reached the squad. “We had been asking for this money for months before the tournament,” he explained, noting the players’ growing anxiety.
Frustrated by the delays, Mikel contacted the late Abba Kyari, then-Chief of Staff to President Buhari, to demand the promised funds. The intervention was immediate and effective. Mikel recounted, “24 hours later, a private plane arrived. The money was delivered to the hotel, hand to hand. Millions of dollars,” ensuring the players were finally paid their rightful earnings.
Mikel’s decision to bypass the NFF leadership caused significant friction with football officials who felt humiliated by his actions. However, the captain remained firm in his decision to prioritize his teammates’ welfare over bureaucracy. “When you fail, I have to take responsibility because my players need the fking money,”** Mikel said, insisting the payment was earned, not a favor.