Nigerian Parliament Launches Probe into Football Federation’s Financial Management
Nigeria’s House of Representatives has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the alleged mismanagement of international football grants by the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), following years of controversial financial handling spanning more than a decade.
The parliamentary action was triggered by a motion presented by Representatives Dr. Adedayo Samuel Adesola and Nwaeke Felix Uche, focusing on the accountability of funds received from FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Former Super Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh’s recent allegations brought renewed attention to the issue, particularly regarding a $1 million FIFA support fund intended for the 2002 World Cup preparations. The NFF has reportedly received over $25 million in development funds from FIFA and CAF between 2015 and 2025, with questions arising about the lack of visible infrastructure improvements.
A significant red flag emerged in December 2016 when FIFA questioned the NFF’s handling of a $1.1 million development grant, noting that $802,000 lacked proper documentation. This prompted then-Sports Minister Solomon Dalung to demand an independent audit of the federation’s accounts.
The controversy deepened between 2018 and 2019 when former NFF President Amaju Pinnick and other senior officials faced investigations by Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies EFCC and ICPC over alleged sponsorship fund mismanagement.
A recent point of contention involves the Birnin Kebbi Stadium project, which reportedly cost $1.2 million. Physical inspection revealed substandard construction, especially when compared to a similar-budget facility in Kenya, raising further questions about the NFF’s financial stewardship.
In response, the House has established a special investigative committee with three key mandates: 1. Examine the NFF’s activities and accounts from 2015 to present 2. Summon federation leadership to present detailed financial and project records 3. Implement measures to enhance transparency and restore stakeholder confidence
The timing of this investigation is particularly crucial with Nigeria’s upcoming participation in the African Cup of Nations and World Cup playoffs. The committee will report its findings to the House for further legislative action, potentially marking a turning point in Nigerian football administration.
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