FIFA has backed Nigeria’s proposed reforms of football administration following the resignation of the entire Nigeria Football Federation board and its General Secretary.
National Sports Commission chairman Shehu Dikko disclosed the development on Saturday, saying FIFA had endorsed Nigeria’s plan to comprehensively reform the administration of the country’s football.
FIFA Supports Reform Plans
According to Dikko, FIFA has been involved in discussions surrounding the proposed changes to Nigeria’s football administration.
He said the international football governing body was open to the reforms and could support the process of restructuring the Nigeria Football Federation.
The development comes after the resignation of the NFF board and General Secretary, creating the need for a new administrative arrangement for Nigerian football.
Normalisation Committee Could Be Set Up
Dikko also said FIFA could establish a normalisation committee as part of the process.
Such a committee would provide an interim structure for managing football administration while broader reforms are considered.
The exact structure and next steps will depend on discussions between Nigerian football authorities and FIFA.
Changes Coming to Nigerian Football Administration
The proposed reforms are aimed at addressing how football is administered in Nigeria.
The NFF is responsible for overseeing the country’s national teams and organising various aspects of football development and competition.
Any changes to its administrative structure could therefore affect how Nigerian football is managed at the national level.
National Teams Continue Their Activities
The administrative developments come as Nigeria’s national teams continue preparing for major international competitions.
The Super Eagles recently opened their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar in Uyo.
Nigeria is also preparing for its next qualifier against Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
The football authorities will therefore have to balance the proposed administrative changes with the country’s ongoing international commitments.
What Happens Next ?
The next stage will involve further discussions over the proposed reforms and the future structure of the NFF.
If a normalisation committee is established, it would provide an interim framework while the wider reform process takes place.
Further details are expected as FIFA and Nigerian football authorities continue discussions over the changes.