Olopade told The PUNCH that Chelle remains fully committed to Nigeria’s long-term football project despite interest from Algeria, Angola, Gabon, Tunisia and Côte d’Ivoire following Nigeria’s third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The renewed agreement includes a salary increase from $50,000 to $100,000 monthly, expanded responsibilities overseeing the U-23 Olympic Eagles, improved welfare for assistants, housing support with uninterrupted electricity, security arrangements, performance-based targets and clauses protecting staff from administrative interference in team selection.
Olopade said Chelle, born in Abidjan and holding Ivorian, French and Malian nationality, was “not bothered by all those rumours.” His next major assignment is the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign, with Nigeria drawn in Group H alongside Madagascar, Tanzania and Guinea-Bissau.
Key Points:
Fans gain confidence in coaching stability ahead of crucial AFCON qualifying campaign.
Salary increase reflects Nigeria’s commitment to retaining top football talent.
Expanded role over U-23 team signals long-term player development strategy.
Contract protections indicate learning from past administrative interference issues.
Timing of renewal, amid multiple suitors, demonstrates Nigeria’s proactive approach.
Chelle’s performance in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers will be the first test of his renewed mandate, with Group H matches starting in September 2026.
