NFF Debunks Alleged FIFA Letter Threatening Nigeria With Sanction

The Nigeria Football Federation has dismissed as fake a purported letter allegedly issued by FIFA threatening Nigeria with possible sanctions over government interference in the administration of Nigerian football.

The document, which circulated in sections of the media, reportedly claimed that FIFA was seeking clarification over the circumstances surrounding the resignation of former NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau.

It further suggested that Nigeria could face suspension from FIFA and Confederation of African Football competitions if the resignation was found to have resulted from pressure by the Federal Government.

However, the NFF rejected the document, describing it as completely fake and insisting that it did not originate from FIFA.

The federation also stated that FIFA had already accepted the resignations of its former principal officers and members of the Executive Committee.

Gusau resigned from his position last week alongside former NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and members of the federation’s executive leadership.

The leadership changes followed growing concerns over the state of Nigerian football, including the failure of the Super Eagles to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Super Falcons’ failure to reach the 2027 Women’s World Cup.

The NFF said discussions were ongoing with FIFA, CAF and the National Sports Commission on comprehensive reforms aimed at restructuring Nigerian football.

The federation said the reform process would involve developing a roadmap that complies with relevant football statutes and regulations while improving the administration of the sport.

The controversy over the purported letter came as Nigerian football officials and government representatives held discussions with FIFA President Gianni Infantino in Zurich, Switzerland.

The delegation included National Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko, Director-General Bukola Olopade, interim NFF General Secretary Emmanuel Ikpeme and former NFF President Amaju Pinnick.

The meeting focused on the ongoing reform process and efforts to establish a new direction for Nigerian football.

The NFF has also suspended plans for its elective congress pending the completion of the reform process.

The federation said the current engagement with FIFA and CAF was aimed at ensuring that the proposed changes were properly implemented and consistent with international football regulations.

The NFF urged the public to disregard the purported FIFA communication and avoid spreading unverified information about possible sanctions against Nigeria.

The federation maintained that there was no basis for the claims contained in the circulating document and reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant football authorities to reform and strengthen Nigerian football.