FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have stepped up efforts to resolve the crisis in Nigerian football, with a joint delegation arriving in Abuja on Monday for talks with officials and stakeholders.
The delegation visited the headquarters of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, where discussions were held on the current situation within the federation.
The visit is part of efforts by the two international football bodies to understand the problems facing the NFF and find a way forward for the administration of Nigerian football.
The development followed a period of uncertainty within the NFF after the resignation of former president Ibrahim Gusau, General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and several members of the federation’s Executive Committee.
The crisis has also created uncertainty over the planned restructuring of the NFF and its next electoral process.
Security was heavy around the NFF secretariat during the visit. More than 20 personnel from the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force were reportedly deployed around the complex.
Access to the premises was restricted, with visitors subjected to security checks before being allowed in.
Some stakeholders who were expected to participate in the consultations were reportedly unable to gain entry. They included officials of the National Institute for Sports and representatives of the players’ union.
Journalists were also reportedly stopped from entering the NFF premises to cover the meetings. Some security personnel were said to have told members of the media that they were acting on instructions from higher authorities.
The restrictions have generated concern among football stakeholders, particularly because FIFA and CAF are expected to listen to different sides as they examine the NFF crisis.
A broader stakeholders’ meeting was also scheduled to take place at the Abuja Continental Hotel later on Monday.
The outcome of the discussions could determine the next steps for the NFF, including its leadership structure, proposed reforms and the process for conducting future elections.
FIFA and CAF had earlier engaged Nigerian authorities over the situation and their latest visit is expected to provide a clearer direction on how the crisis can be resolved and normal administration restored to Nigerian football.
