LunagisthubHow Mikel Obi Fought for Super Eagles’ 2018 World Cup Bonuses
Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has revealed that he contacted the office of the late Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari to secure bonuses for the team’s participation in the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Mikel explained that the players were owed money earned from qualifying for the tournament, and despite repeated assurances from officials, the payments were not made .
Mikel stated that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had promised to pay the bonuses once the team arrived in camp, but the payments never materialized. As the days passed, the players grew increasingly concerned, and Mikel had to intervene to ensure they received their earnings .
Mikel revealed that he contacted Abba Kyari, the then Chief of Staff to President Buhari, who helped facilitate the payment. Within 24 hours, a private plane arrived with millions of dollars in cash, which Mikel handed over to the team secretary with strict instructions to distribute the money only to the players .
Mikel emphasized that the money was not a favor but a rightful earning for the players. He stood his ground despite facing backlash from senior NFF officials, who felt he had embarrassed them by contacting the President’s office .
Mikel’s intervention ensured that the players received their bonuses, highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency in sports administration. His determination to fight for the players’ rights is a testament to his leadership and commitment to the welfare of Nigerian athletes .
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