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Following Nigeria’s impressive performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Eric Chelle has drawn attention from other African national teams, including Tunisia and Algeria.
Confidential Talks Between Eric Chelle and NSC Chairman
Eric Chelle recently engaged in a private meeting with Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), according to reports from Soccernet.ng. This discussion comes amid rising speculation about Chelle’s future with the Nigerian national team, especially with interest reportedly coming from Algeria’s football federation.
The confidential session, held on Tuesday at the NSC headquarters in Abuja, was reported by Footy Africa. It is widely believed that contract renewal talks were a central topic, as Chelle’s current agreement with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is set to expire in early 2027.
NSC’s Commitment to Retaining Eric Chelle in 2026
Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, has publicly affirmed that extending Chelle’s contract is a priority for the commission in the upcoming year. In a recent interview with Footy Africa, Olopade emphasized Chelle’s integral role in Nigeria’s football development strategy.
“Among our many objectives for 2026, securing Eric Chelle’s continued leadership is high on the agenda. He is content with his role here and has no plans to leave,” Olopade stated.
Having signed a two-year contract in January 2025, Chelle is currently midway through his tenure. Despite rumors linking him to other national teams, the NSC’s stance indicates a strong preference for stability and continuity within the Super Eagles’ coaching framework.
Insights Into the Closed-Door Negotiations
Sources from Footy Africa reveal that Chelle, accompanied by his team, met with NSC Chairman Dikko to discuss the future direction of the Super Eagles. While the specifics remain confidential, it is understood that contract extension and strategic plans for the national team were key points of discussion.
Although no official announcement has been made, the meeting strongly suggests that the NSC is keen on securing Chelle’s services beyond his current contract, aiming to preserve the momentum built under his guidance.
