The global players’ union, FIFPRO, announced on Tuesday that it is supporting the Nigerian women’s team in their battle against the country’s football federation (NFF) to receive unpaid wages dating back to 2021.
Prior to the Women’s World Cup, Nigeria had been in conflict with the NFF regarding payment and working conditions. Coach Randy Waldrum claimed that he was owed seven months’ wages, while some players had not been paid for two years.
Nigeria advanced to the knockout rounds of the World Cup but were ultimately knocked out by England in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw in their round of 16 match on Monday.
“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,” it said in a statement.
“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.”
Reuters reached out to the NFF for a statement, but they did not reply when questioned about the matter last month. Nigeria has won the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 11 times, and Waldrum, who is known for speaking his mind, expressed doubt that the conflict would be resolved before the tournament concludes.
“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,” FIFPRO added.
“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.”
Ifeoma Onumonu, a Nigerian forward, disclosed that the team does not have a gym at their training camp in Nigeria and that the players had to share beds.
“There’s a lot that needs to be done. Hopefully, more people start to talk about it. Coming here it’s hard to adjust,” she was quoted as saying by the Guardian.
“We do what we can because we love playing for our country but hopefully they make it easier for us to do our best.”
