The House of Representatives has launched an investigation into the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) over allegations of mismanagement and lack of transparency in the utilization of development grants received from the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) between 2015 and 2025.
This followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Adedayo Samuel Adesola and co-sponsored by Hon. Nwaeke Felix Uche, who raised concerns over reports of poor financial accountability and dwindling football development despite substantial international funding support.
Presenting the motion, Adesola noted that the NFF had received millions of dollars in grants and sponsorships from FIFA and CAF over the years to support grassroots football, infrastructure upgrades, and administrative reforms. However, he lamented that Nigerian football had not reflected the level of growth such funding should have achieved.
He recalled past audit queries and investigations into the NFF’s financial operations, including FIFA’s 2016 audit that highlighted concerns about the management of development grants, as well as subsequent domestic probes by anti-corruption agencies.
Adesola cited widespread public concerns regarding the poor state of football facilities and alleged misapplication of funds earmarked for key projects, including the Birnin Kebbi Stadium, which he said did not reflect the scale of investment reported.
“The state of our football infrastructure and the recurrent controversies around funding demand urgent attention,” he stated. “We must ensure that every kobo meant for sports development is properly accounted for and used for the intended purpose.”
The lawmaker stressed that transparency and good governance were critical to restoring Nigeria’s reputation in international football, especially ahead of major tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the World Cup qualifiers.
Adopting the motion, the House resolved to:
Leave a Comment