Nigeria’s football crisis deepened

Nigeria’s football crisis deepened as NFF president Ibrahim Gusau resigned alongside General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and several executive committee members. Gusau confirmed his decision during a press conference in Abuja, saying he stepped down after consulting family and key stakeholders. Reports indicate that most of the 13‑member board has also quit, prompting an emergency congress to determine the federation’s next steps.

The turmoil comes weeks before scheduled elections and follows widespread criticism over the national teams’ performances. The Super Falcons failed to qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup after elimination at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, ending a streak dating back to 1991. The U20s also missed the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations after a heavy defeat to Burkina Faso. Despite the Super Eagles finishing runners‑up at AFCON 2023, back‑to‑back World Cup failures intensified scrutiny. Financial management concerns, including a DSS probe into a N17 billion intervention fund, further fuel the crisis.