NFF Executive Committee Charts New Direction for National Teams, Refereeing Standards, and Grassroots Football Development
The Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) held its meeting on Wednesday, 10th December 2025, at the NFF Secretariat in Abuja, where it deliberated extensively on key issues affecting Nigerian football and reached several important resolutions.
The meeting, presided over by NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, reviewed the state of the national teams, administrative processes, infrastructural projects, and the performance of match officials across the leagues.
Super Eagles Mandated to Pursue AFCON Glory in Morocco
The Committee appraised ongoing preparations for the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled for 21 December 2025 – 18 January 2026 in Morocco. It directed the NFF Secretariat to ensure a hitch-free and well-coordinated build-up for the Super Eagles.
Members also urged the players to put behind them the disappointment of the recent FIFA World Cup playoffs and seize the opportunity in Morocco to “write a new and positive chapter” about their capabilities.
Fresh Push for Quality Friendlies for Super Falcons
Ahead of the 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations set for 17 March – 3 April 2026, also in Morocco, the Committee instructed the Secretariat to secure strong and competitive friendly matches for the Super Falcons during the February 2026 FIFA window.
The 10-time African champions are aiming for an unprecedented 11th continental title and a ticket to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
New Guidelines for Football Academies to Boost Youth Development
Concerned by the declining fortunes of Nigeria’s youth teams in recent global competitions, the Executive Committee directed the Technical and Legal Departments to design new guidelines for the establishment and regulation of football academies nationwide.
The directive aims to deepen grassroots development and ensure compliance with international standards set by FIFA for youth football structures.
Independent Auditor Recruitment Process Commended
The Committee applauded the ongoing transparent process for appointing a new Independent Auditor for the Federation. A public notice inviting reputable Chartered Accountants has already been issued.
This process follows the completion of two terms by PriceWaterhouseCoopers, in line with the Federation’s rule that no auditing firm may serve more than two consecutive terms.
NFF–FIFA Infrastructure Projects Progressing Smoothly
The Executive Committee expressed satisfaction with the progress of construction work on the NFF–FIFA Players’ Hostel and new training pitches, part of the FIFA Forward 3.0 initiative located at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
There is strong confidence that the contractors are on track to meet the 24-month delivery deadline.
NFF to Clamp Down on Poor Refereeing and Match Manipulation
Following a comprehensive review of refereeing performances in the NPFL, NNL, NWFL, and NLO, the Committee registered deep disappointment over the level of incompetence, poor officiating, and cases of collusion with club officials.
It warned that tougher sanctions and reforms will be introduced to eradicate match manipulation and restore integrity to the leagues.
The meeting was attended by Ibrahim Musa Gusau (President); Yusuf Ahmed; Sharif Rabiu Inuwa; Babagana Kalli; Sunday Dele-Ajayi; Aisha Falode; Ganiyu Majekodunmi; Margaret Icheen; Timothy Heman Magaji; George Aluo and Mohammed Sanusi (Secretary).
