NFF Denies Fake FIFA Letter On Alleged Government Interference

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has dismissed a purported letter allegedly issued by FIFA concerning claims of government interference in the affairs of the federation, describing the document as fake.

The alleged letter had reportedly claimed that FIFA was seeking clarification over the circumstances surrounding the resignation of former NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau.

According to the purported document, FIFA was said to have raised concerns over reports that Gusau stepped down following a directive from the Presidency. It also allegedly referenced FIFA statutes safeguarding the independence of national football associations and warned that Nigeria could face sanctions, including possible suspension, if clarification was not provided.

The NFF, however, rejected the claims, insisting that the document did not originate from FIFA.

In a statement shared on its X account on Tuesday, September 1, the football governing body described the circulating letter as “totally fake” and stated that FIFA had already accepted the resignations of the federation’s former principal officers and executive committee members.

The development came as a delegation from the National Sports Commission (NSC) and other key Nigerian football stakeholders met with FIFA President Gianni Infantino in Zurich, Switzerland, on Tuesday.

The delegation was led by NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director-General Bukola Olopade, while former NFF President and ex-FIFA Council member Amaju Pinnick also participated in the meeting.

Discussions at the meeting reportedly centred on the ongoing restructuring of Nigerian football, recent changes in the NFF leadership and efforts to strengthen the administration and development of the sport.

Gusau, whose tenure was expected to run until September, announced his resignation at a press conference in Abuja on August 27.

Following his departure, the NFF established an interim administrative arrangement, appointing former Deputy General Secretary Emmanuel Ikpeme as interim General Secretary. Ademola Olajire, who previously served as the federation’s Director of Media and Communications, was also appointed interim Deputy General Secretary.

The latest development comes amid growing scrutiny of Nigerian football following the recent performances of the country’s national teams.

The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, missing the tournament for a second consecutive edition, while the Super Falcons also failed to secure qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup for the first time since the competition began in 1991.

The setbacks have prompted calls for significant reforms in the administration of Nigerian football, with President Bola Tinubu also calling for changes following what he described as repeated failures.

Football stakeholders have subsequently renewed calls for improved administration, greater investment in grassroots development and broader reforms aimed at restoring Nigeria’s competitiveness on the international stage.