Eric Chelle, the current head coach of the Nigeria national football team, has taken on an expanded role following a new agreement that adds the Nigeria U23 side, popularly known as the Dream Team, to his responsibilities.
Under the revised arrangement, Chelle will now oversee both the senior national team and the U23 setup, a move designed to tighten the link between Nigeria’s top-level squad and its Olympic pipeline. The deal also reportedly includes an improved compensation package of up to $100,000, while the Nigeria Football Federation will now take responsibility for paying the salaries of his technical assistants.
BREAKING 🚨
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle is set to sign a new deal with the NFF after an agreement was reached between the Nigeria Football Federation and the National Sports Commission.
The new arrangement will see an improved salary worth up to $100,000, while the NFF will… pic.twitter.com/wSOX9ONVNk— Super Eagles Supporters Club (@official_esclub) June 23, 2026
The decision was finalised during a high-level meeting on Tuesday at the National Sports Commission headquarters in Abuja. Key figures in attendance included NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko, NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, and Chelle himself.
Officials say the appointment is part of a broader strategy aimed at restructuring Nigeria’s football development framework, ensuring smoother progression from youth levels to the senior national team.
Nigeria’s U23 side carries a rich Olympic history, with the country becoming the first African nation to complete a full set of Olympic football medals: gold at the 1996 Atlanta Games, silver at Beijing 2008, and bronze at Rio 2016.
With Chelle now in charge of both setups, attention will shift toward rebuilding the Dream Team and pushing for a return to the Olympic stage, as Nigeria looks to revive its strong tradition in international football.
🚨JUST IN – NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko speaking on the agreement reached with Eric Chelle on new terms and remuneration, as Super Eagles coach.
Also announced that Eric will take charge of the U-23 Dream Team.pic.twitter.com/Brh4ibUejY
— Official AGT⚽🎙️ (@Iam_agt) June 23, 2026