FIFA has demanded clarification from Nigerian football authorities over reports of alleged government interference in the affairs of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), warning that the development could lead to sanctions against the country.
In a letter dated September 1, 2026, and signed by FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström on behalf of the FIFA Council, the world football governing body said it was concerned by reports that NFF President Ibrahim Gusau had resigned following an alleged directive from the Presidency.
FIFA cited Articles 14 and 19 of its statutes, which require member associations to manage their affairs independently and without undue influence from governments or other external authorities. The organisation said any intervention that results in the removal of elected football officials could amount to a breach of its statutes and attract sanctions under Article 13.
The global football body has given Nigerian authorities seven days to provide written confirmation that Gusau’s reported resignation was voluntary and free from external pressure, explain the circumstances surrounding the development and assure FIFA that the NFF will continue to operate in line with its statutes and regulations.
FIFA warned that failure to provide satisfactory clarification could lead the FIFA Council to consider suspending Nigeria from all FIFA and CAF competitions and activities with immediate effect. It also said a FIFA/CAF Normalisation Committee could be appointed to oversee the NFF’s affairs and organise fresh elections in accordance with FIFA statutes.
