Naija Ratels Defend Player Welfare Record, Say Salary Issues Are Being Addressed

Naija Ratels FC have responded to reports concerning unpaid salaries, insisting that the club remains committed to the welfare of its players and coaching staff despite financial difficulties during the 2025/26 season.

The Abuja-based Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) club issued a statement signed by President Abdul Sule, explaining that management has maintained communication with players and coaches while making payments whenever funds become available.

Sule described recent reports about unpaid wages as attempts to damage the reputation of the club, arguing that presenting the situation without proper context does not reflect the progress Naija Ratels have made since their establishment in 2019.

According to the club president, the 2025/26 NWFL campaign placed significant pressure on the team financially, especially after the club was forced to rebuild almost its entire squad ahead of the season.

He stressed that all player contracts remain valid and binding, adding that the management is determined to fulfill every contractual obligation.

The statement comes after concerns were raised over the club’s financial situation following a difficult season on the pitch. Naija Ratels finished bottom of NWFL Group A with five points, making it a challenging campaign for the team.

The club, however, maintained that its commitment to building a sustainable women’s football team remains unchanged, while assuring stakeholders that efforts are ongoing to resolve outstanding financial matters.