President Bola Tinubu has ordered a comprehensive reform of Nigerian football following the resignation of Nigeria Football Federation President Ibrahim Gusau, General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and members of the federation’s Executive Committee.
The directive comes amid growing concerns over Nigeria’s declining performance in international football, including the failure of the Super Eagles to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Super Falcons’ failure to qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
Tinubu said the reform must address longstanding weaknesses in the administration and development of the sport, including governance, stakeholder representation, development pathways, domestic competitions and accountability.
The President also directed the Chairman of the National Sports Commission to work with the NFF Secretariat and relevant stakeholders to ensure continuity in football administration while facilitating a broad and consultative reform process.
He further called for engagement with FIFA and the Confederation of African Football, CAF, to ensure that the reform process complies with Nigeria’s international football obligations.
The crisis has already triggered interim measures within the NFF. The federation has suspended preparations for its September 27 elective congress, while an interim leadership headed by Emmanuel Ikpeme takes charge of the Secretariat.
The administration of Nigeria’s major domestic leagues has also been temporarily transferred to their Chief Operating Officers as part of the transition.
