The House of Representatives has opened a probe into the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) over alleged mismanagement and lack of transparency in the use of development grants received from FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) between 2015 and 2025.
The investigation followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Adedayo Samuel Adesola and co-sponsored by Hon. Nwaeke Felix Uche.
The lawmakers expressed concern over reports of poor financial accountability and stagnation in football development despite consistent funding support from international football bodies.
Presenting the motion, Adesola noted that the NFF had received millions of dollars in grants and sponsorships from FIFA and CAF over the years to support grassroots football, infrastructure, and administrative reforms. However, he lamented that Nigerian football had yet to reflect the expected growth such funding should have delivered.
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He recalled past audit queries and investigations into the NFF’s financial operations, including FIFA’s 2016 audit that raised concerns about the management of development grants, as well as subsequent domestic probes by anti-corruption agencies.
Adesola cited public concerns about the use of funds for various projects, including the construction of the Birnin Kebbi Stadium, which he said did not appear to reflect the scale of investment reportedly made.
“The state of our football infrastructure and the recurrent controversies around funding demand urgent attention,” he said. “We must ensure that every kobo meant for sports development is properly accounted for and used for the purpose intended.”
The lawmaker stressed that transparency and good governance were critical to restoring Nigeria’s reputation in international football, especially ahead of major tournaments such as the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the World Cup qualifiers.
Adopting the motion, the House resolved to: Constitute a special investigative committee to review the financial records and operations of the NFF from 2015 to date;
Summon the leadership of the NFF to appear before the committee with relevant financial documents covering all grants and expenditures; and ensure greater accountability and transparency in the management of football funds to rebuild public and international confidence in Nigeria’s sports administration.
