FIFA has demanded clarification from Nigerian football authorities over reports alleging government interference in the affairs of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
In a letter dated September 1 and signed by FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström on behalf of the FIFA Council, the global football governing body expressed concern over reports that NFF President Ibrahim Gusau had resigned following an alleged directive from the Presidency.
FIFA said that, if confirmed, the development could raise serious concerns under its statutes, which require member associations to operate independently and without undue influence from third parties, including government authorities.
The organisation specifically referenced Articles 14 and 19 of the FIFA Statutes, which guarantee the autonomy of member associations in managing their affairs.
FIFA noted that any intervention by public authorities leading to the removal or resignation of elected football officials could constitute a breach of its statutes and potentially attract sanctions under Article 13.
“FIFA has taken note with great concern of reports indicating that the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Ibrahim Gusau, has tendered his resignation following a directive from the Presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the letter stated.
The world football body gave Nigerian authorities seven days to provide clarification on the matter.
FIFA requested written confirmation that Gusau’s reported resignation was voluntary and made without external pressure. It also asked the Federal Government to provide an official explanation of the circumstances surrounding the reported resignation.
In addition, FIFA sought assurances that the NFF would continue to conduct its affairs in accordance with its statutes and applicable FIFA regulations.
The organisation warned that failure to provide satisfactory explanations could lead to the matter being referred to the FIFA Council for consideration.
“Failure to provide satisfactory clarification may compel the FIFA Council to consider the suspension of the Nigeria Football Federation from all FIFA and CAF competitions and activities with immediate effect,” FIFA warned.
It added that, in the event of a suspension, a FIFA/CAF Normalisation Committee could be appointed to manage the day-to-day affairs of the NFF and organise fresh elections in accordance with FIFA statutes.
FIFA reaffirmed its commitment to Nigerian football and urged government officials and football administrators to respect the autonomy of the NFF.
The development has renewed attention on the relationship between government authorities and football administration in Nigeria, particularly the requirement that national football associations remain independent and free from external interference in line with international football regulations.
