Former President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick, has expressed concern over persistent public criticism of the football body’s financial management, warning that such accusations are damaging Nigeria’s reputation internationally.
Pinnick, who led the NFF between 2014 and 2022, said the unending scrutiny and allegations of misappropriation against the federation were not only unfair but also “de-marketing” the country in the eyes of the world.
“We should stop maligning institutions in Nigeria. I’m just appealing because it doesn’t make us look good on the international scene,” Pinnick said during an interview on Arise TV on Wednesday, November 5.
Naija News reports that the NFF has been facing criticism following allegations that it misused funds from the FIFA Forward 2.0 Programme, which were earmarked for the construction of two mini stadiums reportedly valued at $1.2 million each.
Football enthusiasts on social media accused the federation of mismanaging the grants, even though the NFF has repeatedly denied the claims.
Pinnick, under whose leadership the FIFA grants were allocated, defended the institution, insisting that the attacks on the NFF and other sports agencies were based on misinformation and resentment.
‘We’re De-Marketing Nigeria’
The former football administrator warned that the constant negative narratives around government agencies were affecting Nigeria’s chances of hosting major international events.
“It de-markets this country. We just lost our bid to host the Commonwealth Games. I know what somebody told me about it,” Pinnick lamented.
“Whenever we want to host any tournament, Nigeria is almost a red flag because we de-market this country by the minute.”
Pinnick urged Nigerians to be more supportive of the government and national institutions instead of amplifying unverified allegations.
“If the government is even doing something good, I think we should complement them, work with them and pray for them,” he said.
“We don’t have any other country. Nigeria is the sweetest and the best country on this continent.”
Pinnick, who also served on the FIFA Council, said the level of animosity and distrust in Nigeria’s public space discourages professionals from taking up government or public service roles.
“When I see people say things, it makes me not enthused to be involved in government because the toxicity, the bitterness, hatred, and animosity are too much, when they don’t even know the truth,” he said.
He added that the negative perception of Nigerians abroad had worsened because of internal criticism and stereotyping.
“When I travel abroad, we’re double-checked simply because we’re Nigerians. I don’t want to travel anymore,” Pinnick stated.
The former NFF boss linked the country’s credibility issues to broader challenges affecting Nigerian sports, including logistics and fan mobility for international tournaments.
Referencing the Super Eagles’ qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Pinnick said such negative portrayals could even affect travelling fans.
“We’ll be at the World Cup by God’s grace, but how many people can get an American visa in Nigeria?” He asked.
He added that while he was not defending every decision made by the federation, it was important for public discourse to remain factual and constructive.
“I’m not holding fault for the federation, but I’m an officer of the Federal Republic, and it is on us to say the truth when we see fit,” Pinnick concluded.
Naija News reports that the FIFA Forward Development Programme is a global initiative designed to support member associations in developing football infrastructure and governance.
Nigeria was among the beneficiaries during Pinnick’s tenure, with funds reportedly allocated for grassroots facilities.
However, critics have questioned the transparency of project execution, particularly regarding the mini-stadium projects.
While the NFF has maintained that all funds were properly accounted for, calls for an independent audit have persisted within sections of the football community.
