Nationwide Workers' Strike Strands Super Eagles Players in Lagos Ahead of Crucial World Cup Qualifiers

The nationwide workers' strike has reportedly left some Super Eagles players stranded in Lagos as the Nigerian team prepares for their crucial World Cup qualifiers against South Africa, Soccernet.ng reports.

Several Super Eagles players have been left stranded in Lagos due to the nationwide workers’ strike, impacting the Nigerian team's preparations for their crucial World Cup qualifiers against South Africa, according to Soccernet.ng.

Following the Federal Government's refusal to increase the proposed minimum wage, labour unions began an indefinite nationwide strike on Monday, causing disruptions throughout the nation.

Aviation staff and employees have also joined the strike, disrupting travel arrangements for the match.

Despite these challenges, fifteen players participated in a rigorous training session on Monday morning at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

However, eight players, including notable names such as Maduka Okoye, Semi Ajayi, and Alex Iwobi, have been unable to join the camp due to the Nigeria Labour Congress strike, which has halted domestic flights, according to U-17 media officer Francis Achi.

The stranded players due to NLC strike

Maduka Okoye, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman and Paul Onuachu.

The players are already in Nigeria, but could not connect flight from Lagos to Uyo.@thenff @nassnigeria pic.twitter.com/TDVmSQjkpV

— Francis Achi (@totorimaster) June 3, 2024

Impact of NLC Strike on Super Eagles’ Training

Punch reports that the NLC and TUC began an indefinite nationwide strike over the Federal Government's refusal to increase the minimum wage and reverse the electricity tariff hike.

Disappointment was expressed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and TUC President Festus Osifo over the government's failure to pass a new National Minimum Wage Act.

Multiple sectors are affected by the strike, including universities and aviation, with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and various aviation unions halting services nationwide.

Super Eagles’ Resilience Amid NLC Strike

Under the guidance of head coach Finidi George, the team engaged in fitness routines, shooting drills, and tactical exercises during the training session, despite the strike affecting travel logistics.

While the strike continues to impact the team's preparations, the coaching staff remains focused on optimizing the training schedule.

Training ✅ #soarsupereagles pic.twitter.com/tb0gk5FQTs

— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) June 2, 2024

The session was canceled on Monday evening to allow the players some rest and recovery.

Despite the setbacks, the Super Eagles are approaching the decisive qualifiers against the Bafana Bafana of South Africa with a clear goal in mind.