NFF denies reports of FIFA sanctions over officials’ resignations
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has refuted claims that FIFA intends to sanction Nigeria following the recent resignation of several top officials.
In a statement, the NFF labeled as false a letter purportedly from FIFA that requested an explanation regarding the mass resignations within the organization.
NFF President Ibrahim Gusau and General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi resigned from their posts last week, leading to the appointment of Emmanuel Ikpeme as the acting general secretary while reforms are underway. The resignations sparked apprehension about the possibility of a FIFA ban due to alleged violations of the organization’s regulations.
To address these concerns, a Nigerian delegation led by Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), held discussions with FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The delegation also included NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade, acting NFF General Secretary Ikpeme, and former NFF President Amaju Pinnick.
In a post shared on X on Tuesday, the NFF reiterated that claims of a FIFA letter were “totally fake.” The statement emphasized that FIFA has accepted the resignations of former NFF officials and confirmed that talks are ongoing with both FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) regarding a comprehensive reform agenda for Nigerian football.
“The NFF is engaged in mutual discussions with the NSC, NFF administration, and CAF alongside FIFA to develop a roadmap for the future in line with relevant statutes,” the statement read.
The NFF had originally planned to hold elections later this month, but those elections are now on hold until the ongoing reforms are completed.
