DistantNews
Support us
🇳🇬 Nigeria /Elections & Politics

Nigeria Football Federation Probe Continues Amid President's Resignation

From The Punch · () English

Translated from English and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

News Named sources Under investigation
  • Nigeria's anti-graft agency is investigating the use of a N12 billion intervention fund allocated to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
  • The probe into the fund, meant for player wages and bonuses, is ongoing, with some officials reportedly interviewed.
  • The investigation coincides with the resignation of NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, who cited personal reasons.

Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed that its investigation into the N12 billion Federal Government intervention fund disbursed to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is actively proceeding. The commission's spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, stated that the investigation is ongoing in response to inquiries.

Investigation is ongoing on the matter.

— Dele OyewaleConfirming the EFCC's active investigation into the NFF fund.

This development follows earlier reports that both the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission had launched separate investigations into how the intervention fund, approved by President Bola Tinubu in 2024, was utilized. The fund was intended to settle outstanding wages and bonuses owed to players of Nigeria's national football teams. A source close to the matter indicated that some officials connected to the fund have been invited by investigators and have provided statements, though no arrests have been confirmed.

The investigation into the NFF's finances occurs concurrently with significant leadership changes within the federation. NFF President Ibrahim Gusau announced his resignation after nearly four years in office, stating his decision stemmed from consultations with his family and friends. He also encouraged other board members to resign if they wished, though he could not immediately confirm how many had followed suit.

I have decided to resign my position as the president of NFF, after consultations with my family and friends. I have also advised my board members, those who are willing, to resign as well.

— Ibrahim GusauAnnouncing his resignation as NFF President.

Gusau's departure follows a period of disappointing performances by Nigerian national teams. The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups, and the Super Falcons missed qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Nigeria's youth teams have also struggled, with the Golden Eaglets failing to reach the FIFA U-17 World Cup for three consecutive editions. Despite his resignation, Gusau expressed his commitment to contributing to Nigerian football's development through his experience and connections within African football circles.

For me, I want to make it clear that, by the grace of God, we will continue to give our contribution. Our experience, connections and relationships within African football will never go in vain. We will do our best to ensure that whenever we are needed, we will contribute to the progress of Nigerian football.

— Ibrahim GusauStating his continued commitment to Nigerian football development post-resignation.
About this summary

Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.

More Stories

From Our Blog