FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have directed the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to suspend its ongoing electoral process as they begin a review of the leadership crisis affecting Nigerian football.
The decision comes after recent changes in the NFF leadership, including the resignations of key officials. FIFA and CAF said they want to fully assess the legal, administrative and governance issues before the election process can continue.
Election Process Put on Hold
In a letter sent to the NFF, FIFA and CAF instructed the federation to stop every activity related to the planned election until further notice.
The two football governing bodies explained that the suspension is necessary to preserve the current situation while they examine recent developments. They also stressed that the decision does not mean they have reached any final conclusions about the crisis.
Joint FIFA and CAF Mission to Visit Abuja
As part of the review, FIFA and CAF confirmed that they will send a joint delegation to Abuja.
The delegation will meet with officials from the NFF, members of the federation, electoral committees and representatives of the National Sports Commission. The meetings are expected to help the governing bodies gather more information before deciding on the next steps.
Leadership Crisis Triggers Review
The review follows the resignation of NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, members of the Executive Committee and General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi.
The unexpected departures created uncertainty over the federation’s leadership and the planned elective congress. FIFA and CAF said they are reviewing all communications received from stakeholders before making any recommendations.
What Happens Next?
For now, the NFF election remains suspended until FIFA and CAF complete their assessment.
After the Abuja mission, both organisations will decide whether further action or reforms are necessary. Until then, the NFF has been instructed not to take any additional steps regarding the electoral process.
The outcome of the review is expected to play a major role in determining the future leadership of Nigerian football.