Nigeria Football Federation probe alleges officials influenced national team selections for financial gain

A fact-finding committee within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has alleged that certain officials may have manipulated player selections for Nigeria's national teams to secure financial benefits. This serious accusation is detailed in a leaked committee report, dated August 21, which PREMIUM TIMES has reviewed.

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some of the board members influence the invitation of players to the national teams locally and internationally.

The committee was established in the wake of the Super Falcons' inability to retain their Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title and their failure to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup. Its mandate extended to examining broader administrative, technical, financial, and developmental challenges within Nigerian football.

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Team Coaches and Officials” could be involved in inviting players to national camps “for the purpose of having a source for financial gains.

According to the report, "some of the board members influence the invitation of players to the national teams locally and internationally." It further suggests that "Team Coaches and Officials" might be involved in inviting players to national camps "for the purpose of having a source for financial gains." The report also raises concerns about potential incentives being offered to board members, NFF management staff, and coaches to influence decisions regarding national team call-ups.

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Allegations of Board Members, NFF Management Staff and Coaches taking incentives to compromise decisions in the build-up to national team camp invitation.

Notably, the committee did not identify any specific individuals in connection with these allegations, and the claims are presented as allegations rather than proven facts. The report also highlighted other concerns, including unequal payment practices within national team delegations, where board members and management staff reportedly receive payment while players and their coaches do not. The committee recommended that compensation structures should be "well structured, equitable, and accordingly administered."

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the usual claim that in a team delegation that comprises players, coaches, Management Staff of the NFF, and Board Members, Board Members and Management Staff are paid while the players and their officials are not paid.