Fresh Twist In NFF Crisis As FIFA Demands Answers On Gusau’s Resignation

Nigeria could be heading for a fresh football crisis as FIFA has demanded answers over the reported resignation of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Ibrahim Gusau, demanding an explanation from Nigerian authorities.

The world football governing body has now given Nigerian football authorities seven days to explain what happened, Naija News reports.

In a letter dated September 1, 2026, and signed by FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström on behalf of the FIFA Council, FIFA said it was seriously concerned about the reports.

The organization wants clarification on whether Gusau resigned freely or was pressured to leave his position.

FIFA also asked the Federal Government to provide an official explanation of the circumstances surrounding the reported resignation.

The third issue raised by FIFA is the continued independence of the NFF. The organisation wants assurances that the federation will continue to run its affairs according to its own statutes and FIFA regulations.

FIFA said any government interference leading to the removal of an elected football official could violate its rules.

It specifically referred to Articles 14 and 19 of the FIFA Statutes, which require football associations in member countries to manage their affairs independently and without interference from outside bodies, including governments.

FIFA noted that any breach could attract sanctions under Article 13 of its statutes.

“FIFA has taken note with great concern of reports indicating that the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Ibrahim Gusau, has tendered his resignation following a directive from the Presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the letter stated.

FIFA said failure to provide satisfactory answers within the stipulated seven days could force its Council to consider suspending the NFF from all FIFA and Confederation of African Football (CAF) competitions and activities with immediate effect, a development that could affect Nigeria’s participation in international football competitions, Naija News reports.

FIFA also said that if Nigeria is suspended, a joint FIFA/CAF Normalization Committee could be appointed to take charge of the NFF’s day-to-day activities.

The committee would also be expected to organize fresh elections in line with FIFA’s statutes.

FIFA has therefore called on the Federal Government, football administrators and other stakeholders to respect the independence of the NFF.

The organization said it remained committed to Nigerian football but stressed that the autonomy of the country’s football governing body must be protected.