Tinubu Orders Comprehensive Reform Of Nigerian Football

Tinubu Orders Comprehensive Reform of Nigerian Football

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a comprehensive reform of Nigerian football, following repeated failures by the country’s national teams to qualify for major regional, continental and global tournaments. The directive comes amid a major shake-up in the Nigeria Football Federation NFF, with NFF President Ibrahim Gusau and other members of the federation’s leadership resigning. Tinubu said the reform would address longstanding structural weaknesses within Nigerian football, with emphasis on governance, administration, stakeholder representation, development pathways, domestic competitions and accountability.The President noted that despite football being Nigeria’s most popular sport and receiving significant public support and investment, the country’s performances have continued to fall short of expectations. He said Nigerian football must match the country’s abundance of talent, passion and resources with stronger institutions and sustained performances.Tinubu directed the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, to work with the NFF Secretariat and relevant football stakeholders to ensure continuity in essential football administration while facilitating a broad and consultative reform process. The reform process will also involve appropriate engagement with FIFA and CAF, while ensuring that Nigeria continues to meet its obligations under the international football governance framework.The President called on football stakeholders and Nigerians to support the transition and work collectively towards building a stronger, more accountable and successful football system.