The crisis engulfing Nigerian football has taken another dramatic turn, with Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau and eight other members of the federation’s executive committee reportedly resigning from their positions.
According to Vanguard, the development comes amid mounting pressure on the NFF board over the management of Nigerian football and scrutiny by security agencies into the utilization of a ₦17 billion Federal Government intervention fund.
The reported resignations could have major implications for the NFF’s planned elective congress, which is currently scheduled for September 27 in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
Eight of 13 board members reportedly quit
Vanguard reports that the pressure on the NFF executive committee had intensified to the point where eight of its 13 members had allegedly resigned.
The reported departures, alongside Gusau’s resignation, could fundamentally alter the composition of the federation’s leadership and raise fresh questions over the immediate future of the NFF.
It also places the federation’s electoral calendar under further uncertainty.
The NFF had been preparing for its September 27 elective congress in Lafia, with the process expected to determine the next leadership of Nigerian football.
However, the reported mass resignations could now trigger questions about whether the planned election can proceed as scheduled or whether further administrative steps will be required.
A new twist in the NFF leadership crisis
The reported resignation comes only hours after intense speculation surrounding the future of the NFF leadership and alleged pressure from government authorities.
NFF President Gusau had been scheduled to address journalists in Abuja on Thursday amid reports concerning the forthcoming election, alleged government intervention, a possible normalisation committee and claims that members of the executive committee were considering resignation.
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Vanguard reports that the Department of State Services (DSS) has joined other security agencies in investigating the NFF over the utilisation of the intervention fund approved by President Bola Tinubu in 2024.
The money was released to address outstanding payments owed to Nigeria’s national teams, including players’ wages and bonuses.
A source cited by Vanguard said security officials had requested documentation relating to how the funds were utilised.
“It’s a normal thing for DSS to go through all documents relating to the funds released them,” the source was quoted as saying.
The investigation comes against the backdrop of growing concerns over the administration and performance of Nigeria’s national teams.
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Vanguard reported the resignations and the ongoing security probe. The NFF has yet to issue an official statement confirming the reported departures.
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