Nigeria's Football Association has opened negotiations with head coach Adegboye Onigbinde over a new contract to lead the Super Eagles to the 2004 African Nations Cup.

Qualifying rounds for the tournament begin in July.

"We will open discussions with Onigbinde this week over a new contract," said FA secretary-general Taiwo Ogunjobi.

Ogunjobi told the AFP news agency that after the country's president, Olusegun Obasanjo, declared his preference for local coaches, Onigbinde would be reconsidered for the top job.

There had previously been calls for Nigeria to look abroad for someone to replace him.

Onigbinde was in charge of the team that failed to go past the first round of the 2002 World Cup in Korea and Japan.

He was reportedly paid $60,000 for leading the team to the tournament.

The FA said Onigbinde, who has indicated his desire to continue as the Super Eagles coach, is likely to sign a two-year deal.

According to officials, Onigbinde could get between $10,000 and $15,000 as a monthly salary.