The National Sports Commission (NSC) is reportedly divided over who should head the proposed Normalisation Committee following the resignation of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau and other members of the federation’s board.
The leadership shake-up comes amid mounting concerns over the management of Nigerian football and the use of funds allocated to the NFF.
Reports had indicated that the NFF board resigned following intense pressure linked to the federation’s handling of football affairs and finances.
The Department of State Services (DSS), alongside other security agencies, has also been investigating the NFF over the utilisation of the N17 billion Federal Government intervention fund released to the federation for players’ wages and bonuses.
NFF General Secretary Confirms Resignation
NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, has also confirmed his resignation as the football body faces a major leadership crisis.
Sanusi reportedly confirmed on Thursday that both he and Gusau had stepped down from their positions.
The development follows a challenging period for Nigerian football, including the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Super Falcons’ failure to secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
NSC Divided Over Normalisation Committee
The leadership changes have increased calls for the establishment of a Normalisation Committee to oversee the NFF until a new executive is elected.
However, reports suggest that NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director-General Bukola Olopade are yet to agree on who should lead the proposed committee.
According to a source who spoke on condition of anonymity, Dikko is backing Musa Ahmadu, while Olopade reportedly prefers former NFF President Amaju Pinnick.
“We’ve seen this movie before. When administrators fight, players suffer, sponsors run, and FIFA starts asking questions,” the source added.
The proposed Normalisation Committee is expected to oversee the NFF for three months, with one of its major responsibilities being the organisation of fresh elections for a new executive board.
NFF Election Schedule May Change
The proposed arrangement could affect the NFF’s existing election timetable, which was originally scheduled to take place on September 27 in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
With uncertainty surrounding the composition and leadership of the proposed committee, stakeholders are now watching closely to see how the latest developments will affect the future administration of Nigerian football.
