The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has dismissed as false a purported letter allegedly issued by FIFA over claims of government interference in the administration of Nigerian football.
The federation said in a statement on Tuesday that the document circulating in sections of the media did not originate from FIFA. It added that FIFA had already accepted the resignations of former NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau and other members of the federation’s Executive Committee.
The clarification came on the same day a Nigerian delegation met FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the football governing body's headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland.
The delegation was led by National Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director-General Bukola Olopade. Former NFF President and former FIFA Council member Amaju Pinnick also attended the meeting.
The meeting focused on the ongoing restructuring of Nigerian football, recent changes in the leadership of the NFF and measures aimed at repositioning the country's football administration.
The engagement followed the resignation of Gusau, former NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and members of the Executive Committee on August 27. The NFF subsequently appointed Emmanuel Ikpeme as interim General Secretary and Ademola Olajire as interim Deputy General Secretary.
The federation also suspended preparations for its elective congress originally scheduled for September 27. According to the NFF, a fresh electoral process will begin after the completion of proposed reforms and consultations with FIFA, the Confederation of African Football and other stakeholders.
The purported FIFA letter had reportedly claimed that the world football governing body was seeking clarification over the circumstances surrounding Gusau's resignation and alleged interference by the Nigerian government.
The document also reportedly referred to FIFA's rules on the independence of member associations and suggested that sanctions could follow if the matter was not clarified.
However, the NFF rejected the document and described it as completely fake. A separate report citing a senior FIFA official also said the letter did not originate from the organisation.
The direct meeting between Nigerian officials and Infantino is expected to provide clearer information on FIFA's position regarding the leadership transition and the Federal Government's proposed reforms.
The development comes at a challenging period for Nigerian football, following disappointing performances by some national teams and increasing calls for changes in the administration and development of the sport.
The Nigerian delegation is expected to continue discussions with FIFA and other football stakeholders as authorities work towards establishing a new roadmap for the administration of Nigerian football.
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