By Victor Okoye
Fès (Morocco), Jan. 8, 2026 (NAN) Former Chairman of Gombe Football Association, Hon. Ahmed Shuaibu Gara-Gombe, has urged Super Eagles players to embrace patriotism, discipline and professionalism ahead of their crucial match against Algeria.
Gara-Gombe, also a two-time former Chairman of Gombe United FC, warned players against selfish conduct and actions capable of embarrassing Nigeria on the continental stage.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, he condemned reports of training boycotts by some players over bonuses and outstanding allowances during the ongoing AFCON in Morocco.
He described the action as unpatriotic, stressing that representing Nigeria should come with sacrifice, discipline and respect for national pride.
“It is painful that some players choose to embarrass Nigeria whenever they get the opportunity to wear the national colours,” Gara-Gombe said.
According to him, players should prioritise national honour over personal gains, especially when the country’s image is under global media scrutiny.
“These players earn huge sums abroad. How much is the bonus they are quarrelling over compared to their monthly salaries in Europe?” he queried.
Gara-Gombe noted that other African stars play for their countries without placing financial conditions on participation.
“Moroccan players only need the national team shirt. They value national pride more than allowances,” he said.
He recalled that before the tournament, the Super Eagles had ample time to raise concerns about bonuses but failed to do so.
“There was almost two months between the Tanzania match and this tournament. Why wait until camp to disrupt preparations?” he asked.
The former chairman warned that protests at such a critical stage could affect team focus and performance against Algeria.
“This is a decisive match. Instead of full concentration, some players are creating unnecessary distractions,” he said.
Gara-Gombe questioned the leadership within the team, saying captains must guide players away from actions that could damage national interest.
“Leadership is about calming tensions, not encouraging protests that ridicule the country,” he added.
He stressed that legitimate demands must be made through proper channels and at appropriate times.
“What is legitimate can become wrong if it is pursued wrongly,” Gara-Gombe said.
He urged the players to focus on winning, warning that poor results would attract public backlash.
“If they boycott and lose, Nigerians will not forgive them. Victory is the only acceptable response now,” he said.
Gara-Gombe also expressed concern about the example such actions set for junior national teams.
“What message are they sending to the younger players who dream of serving Nigeria?” he asked.
He advocated greater reliance on domestic league players, saying Nigeria has capable talents at home.
“Nigeria can field competitive players from the local league who are hungry and patriotic,” he said.
He noted that many AFCON teams, including Morocco, Egypt and South Africa, feature several home-based players.
Gara-Gombe warned that lack of discipline could hurt players after retirement.
“Without discipline, some may end up regretting their careers when football is over,” he cautioned.
He described the situation as unfortunate and unacceptable, urging football authorities to address indiscipline firmly.
“This nonsense must stop. National interest must always come first,” Gara-Gombe said.(NAN)
