In the aftermath of the Nigeria’s 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in the 2026 World Cup qualifier, Nse Essien, a board member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), admitted that financial constraints are hindering the possibility of sacking head coach Jose Peseiro.

The NFF chieftain revealed that the Super Eagles’ recent performances have left a lot to be desired.

Nigeria drew its first two matches in the qualifiers, 1-1 against Lesotho in Uyo, and a similar result against Zimbabwe in Butare – coming from behind on both occasions.

The results has left them with only two points out of a potential six, and the outcome has prompted fervent calls from football enthusiasts urging the NFF to terminate Peseiro’s contract.

Essien, however, shed light on the complexities behind such a decision, emphasizing the financial challenges the NFF currently faces.

He said: “This Board didn’t employ him and it was the Sports Ministry, who employed him, are supposed to pay his salaries. But up till now, nothing has been paid. If we sack the coaches now, who will pay compensation?

“Not a dime has been paid yet to this coach who earns about $70,000 a month. We have to respect Jose Peseiro’s contract.​

“If we had the money to give to him (pay him off) we are going to relieve him. We are not happy,” He said.