Former Super Eagles midfielder Garba Lawal has expressed concerns over the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) ability to consistently pay the reported $100,000 monthly salary of Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle, despite backing the decision to retain the Franco-Malian tactician.

Lawal made the remarks following reports that Chelle’s contract had been extended until 2030 with a significant pay increase from his previous monthly earnings. Under the revised agreement, the NFF is also expected to take responsibility for the salaries of the coach’s backroom staff.

While describing the contract extension as a positive step for Nigerian football, Lawal said he was uncertain whether the federation could sustain the financial commitment over the duration of the deal.

“This is very good for Nigeria. Eric Chelle can call up players who perform very well in the Olympics. I only fear that Nigeria cannot sustain that $100,000 payment,” Lawal said.

Chelle, who took charge of the Super Eagles in January 2025, has overseen a period of encouraging results that reportedly convinced football authorities to reward him with an improved contract. In addition to leading the senior national team, he has also been linked with responsibilities involving Nigeria’s Olympic football programme under the new arrangement.

Lawal’s comments add to the growing debate over the financial implications of the coach’s enhanced contract, particularly at a time when the NFF has faced recurring concerns over funding and the timely payment of coaches and players.

Despite his reservations, the former international maintained that Chelle deserves support to continue building the Super Eagles, expressing hope that the federation would be able to meet its obligations while ensuring stability within the national team setup.

Neither the NFF nor Chelle has publicly responded to Lawal’s remarks as discussions continue over the sustainability of the reported salary package.