In a tweet on Tuesday, the Eagles captain confirmed the team
boycotted training over unpaid allowances and bonuses by the Nigeria Football
Federation (NFF).

Ekong was reacting to reports that the players had demanded
an increase in their bonuses for the World Cup playoffs.

The players and officials refused to carry out their
scheduled Tuesday evening training session in protest.

TheCable understands that players are yet to receive their
allowances for qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the
2026 World Cup playoff.

Some older members of the team are reportedly owed bonuses
dating back to 2019.

Nigeria play Gabon in one of the semi-finals for the 2026
African World Cup playoffs on Thursday.

The winner of the match will face either Congo DR or
Cameroon in the final to clinch the sole slot to represent Africa at the
intercontinental playoff.

All the 24 players invited by Eric Chelle, the team’s
manager, are currently in Rabat. The players are not expected back in training
except the outstanding issue is addressed.

Ekong added that all the players want is a quick resolution
and to “focus on the big games ahead”.