The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission have begun investigating the utilisation of a N12 billion Federal Government intervention fund released to the Nigeria Football Federation for players’ wages and bonuses.
The fund was approved by President Bola Tinubu in 2024 to clear outstanding payments owed to Nigeria’s national teams.
Some officials connected to the matter have already been invited by investigators and have provided statements, according to a source familiar with the investigation. The officials are currently on administrative bail while the probe continues.
NFF Declines Request for Financial Records
The investigation came to light after a request was made under the Freedom of Information Act for financial records and utilisation documents relating to the N12 billion fund.
In a letter dated August 18, the NFF said it could not release the requested documents because the matter was already being investigated by both the EFCC and ICPC.
The federation stated that documents relating to the request were in the possession of the two anti-corruption agencies as part of their ongoing investigations.
Fund Was Meant for Players and Coaches
The Federal Government approved the intervention in January 2024 amid concerns over unpaid allowances, bonuses and other outstanding obligations owed to Nigeria’s national teams.
The payment reportedly covered 15 months of outstanding salaries for Super Eagles coaches, as well as allowances and other payments due to the senior men's, women's and U-20 national teams.
The investigation is expected to establish how the funds were disbursed and utilised and whether all payments intended for players, coaches and other beneficiaries were properly accounted for.
Neither the EFCC nor ICPC has announced a final conclusion from the investigation.
The probe comes amid wider concerns over the administration and financial management of Nigerian football, with pressure continuing on the country's football authorities to improve transparency and accountability.
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