Lagos: Some football fans have raised concerns about the stark differences in earnings, allowances, and match bonuses between the Super Eagles and the Super Falcons players. Speaking in Lagos, some of the fans told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) they were unhappy with the current situation. The inequality has ignited widespread debate, with many Nigerians calling for equal pay and fair treatment for both national teams.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, former international footballer Azuka Izu criticized the disparity, saying the Super Falcons do not receive the same level of support from football authorities as the Super Eagles. He stressed that both teams bring honor to Nigeria and deserve equal recognition and compensation for their efforts and achievements. Izu expressed frustration over the ongoing inequality, stating that it's unfair for the Super Falcons to earn far less than the Super Eagles. He believes the issue stems from a longstanding bias toward men's football, despite the Falcons' strong and consistent performances over the years. Although the Eagles generate more revenue, Izu insisted that this should not overshadow what the Falcons have achieved for Nigeria. He called for equal pay and increased investment in the Falcons to enable them to compete effectively on the global stage.
Similarly, Abdulrahman Gbadamosi, coach of Sebioba Football Club in Ibadan, described the disparity as unjust, given the Falcons' accomplishments. He argued that the Super Falcons' 11 continental titles between 1991 and 2018 prove their excellence and deserve appropriate reward. Gbadamosi noted that while Super Eagles players earn high match bonuses, Falcons players often receive little or none in comparison. He suggested that improved marketing of women's football could increase revenue and attract greater support for the female team. He cited the United States' equal pay model for male and female teams as an example Nigeria should consider adopting. Gbadamosi emphasized the urgent need to address the issue and urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to close the pay gap and guarantee equal opportunities for both teams.
Football analyst Monday Izegagbe raised another concern: inadequate preparation for the women's championship beginning on 5 July 2025. He noted that with only weeks left, no serious preparations have been made, highlighting the poor treatment of the Falcons. Despite their achievements, Izegagbe said the Super Falcons have long faced neglect from the NFF regarding commitment and investment. He cited issues such as poor training facilities, inadequate accommodation, and lack of proper funding as recurring problems. Izegagbe stressed the importance of addressing systemic challenges affecting the growth of women's football in Nigeria and called for the NFF to show genuine support and long-term commitment.