Code of conduct ready for Eagles

Nigeria's Super Eagles are set to be handed a code of conduct ahead of next year's edition of the Fifa World Cup.

The code of conduct will also apply to the all players in the other national teams in Nigeria.

The document now with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is divided into five parts of standard of conduct required at all times; national team values while on international duty; allowances and bonuses, obligations of the NFF, procedure in the alleged breach of the code and national team captaincy.

It is clearly stated in the national teams player code of conduct that invited footballers who accept to appear in Nigeria's colours "shall be deemed to have accepted and agreed to abide by" the new law.

"Accordingly, by accepting invitation to the National Team, Players shall be deemed to have accepted and agreed to abide by and adhered to the provisions and principles of this code of conduct in its entirety and provisions of Section 24 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria," a part in the preamble of the code of conduct stated.

Meanwhile the provisions of Section 24 of the Nigerian constitution states: " It shall be a duty of every citizen to; abide by this constitution, respect its ideals and its institutions, the National Flag, the National Anthem, the National Pledge, and legitimate authorities; help enhance the power, prestige and good name of Nigeria, defend Nigeria and render such National service as may be required; respect the dignity of other citizens and the rights and legitimate interest of others and live in unity and harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood; make positive and useful contribution to the advancement, progress and well-being of the community where he resides; render assistance to appropriate and lawful agencies in the maintenance of law and order; and declare his income honestly to appropriate and lawful agencies and his tax promptly."

The code of conduct also gives players insight to extent on which they can make public comment as regards the national teams whether in the media or social networking sites such Twitter and Facebook.

"If any player wishes to publicly comment on any aspect of playing for Nigeria, including in books, newspaper columns, podcasts, vodcasts, diaries and any other online media services, including social networking sites, prior permission of The NFF Media Office is required.

"Any player on Twitter or Facebook should liaise with the National Team Media Officer and/or NFF Press Officer(s) for guidance. Do not criticise tournament organisers, referees, other players, fans, or nations.

"No Twitter or Facebook comments the day before and day of matches, unless authorised by the Head Coach and the Team Media officer. No Twitter or social media disclosing team or injuries the day before or on the day of the match. No exclusive media columns or blogs. Be aware that texts, picture messages, BBM can easily become public very quickly so players must not send anything that might embarrass the team," the code of conduct stated.

On the issue of players' pay which prompted the code of conduct to come into effect, it is stated that there will be no more cash payments from the federation to the players.

Instead "payment of allowances and bonuses or any other such entitlements" will be paid into bank details provided by the players within seven days.

However, the Super Eagles head coach, Stephen Keshi and his counterparts in other national teams, have been given "the right to change the captaincy irrespective of any breaches of the code of conduct."

The code of conduct which has a 2013 date on it, is subject to changes as time goes by.

The NFF and the sports ministry have decided to implement a code of conduct for the national teams following events that played out in June this year when Super Eagles players were alleged to have refused to travel for the Fifa Confederations Cup in Brazil over disagreement in match bonuses.