President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a comprehensive reform of Nigeria’s football system, following the country’s repeated struggles to qualify for major regional, continental and global competitions.
The directive was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu directed the National Sports Commission to work closely with the Nigeria Football Federation and other key stakeholders to overhaul the administration and development of football in the country.
The proposed reforms will focus on football governance, administration, player development pathways, domestic competitions and accountability.
The President said the move was necessary to ensure that Nigeria’s abundant football talent, passion and resources are supported by strong institutions capable of delivering sustained success.
“Football, Nigeria’s most popular sport and the greatest beneficiary of public support, investment and national attention, has continued to struggle basically due to structural deficits within the system,” Tinubu said.
The President also directed the relevant authorities to engage with FIFA and the Confederation of African Football as part of the reform process, while ensuring that Nigeria continues to meet its obligations under the international football framework.
He urged football stakeholders and Nigerians to support the reform initiative, stressing the need for collective efforts to build a stronger, more transparent and successful football system.
Tinubu further directed the Chairman of the National Sports Commission to work with the NFF Secretariat and other relevant stakeholders to ensure continuity in essential football administration while facilitating a broad and consultative reform process.
The latest directive comes amid growing concerns over Nigeria’s inconsistent performances and repeated failures to qualify for some major international competitions, despite the country’s rich pool of football talent and significant public interest in the sport.
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