Enyimba denies slashing players’ salaries by 50%

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) powerhouse Enyimba has been forced to issue a strong public statement refuting claims that the club drastically cut its players’ salaries by 50%.

This clarification follows the team’s alarming run of form, which was compounded by a shock 1-0 home defeat to Wikki Tourists on Saturday.

The People’s Elephant, widely recognised as the most decorated Nigerian club, has struggled significantly in the 2025-26 NPFL season, managing a mere four victories heading into their Matchday 13 encounter. The unexpected home loss fueled speculation regarding drastic internal measures, and reports of players facing a substantial 50 per cent pay reduction quickly began to circulate.

Addressing the widespread rumours, Enyimba’s management released an official statement via their social media handles on Wednesday, seeking to categorically stabilise the situation and reaffirm their commitment to professional standards.

Enyimba Issues Strong Statement

“The attention of Enyimba Football Club has been drawn to a misleading report currently circulating, alleging that the club has slashed the salaries of its players by 50% following the home defeat to Wikki Tourist FC.”

“Enyimba FC wishes to categorically state that at no time did the management approve, initiate, or implement any salary reduction. The club remains fully committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism in its relationship with players and staff.”

Beyond the denial of the pay cut, the statement strongly criticised the origin of the false claims, urging the public to exercise caution.

“This report is purely a figment of the writer’s imagination and should be disregarded by the general public. As a professional club, Enyimba FC communicates all official decisions and updates exclusively through its verified channels.”

The club expressed concern that such “false information emanated from a supposedly reputable media organisation/personnel without any attempt to verify the claims from the club’s official platforms or through its management or media team.”

While upholding its “longstanding mutual respect with the media,” Enyimba confirmed that the focus remains solely on improving results and returning to winning ways, stating they will “continue to work closely with media partners to highlight our activities and contribute to the advancement of the NPFL and football development.”

Focus Shifts to Kastina United

With the controversy addressed, Enyimba must now redirect their focus to the pitch. They face Kastina United in an away fixture this Sunday, aiming to reverse their recent poor fortunes against a side equally desperate to recover their form.