The House of Representatives has resolved to initiate a detailed investigation into the alleged mismanagement of more than US$25 million in grants awarded to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) between 2015 and 2025.
The decision follows adoption of a motion of urgent public importance, co-sponsored by lawmakers Adedayo Adesola (APC-Lagos) and Felix Nwaeke (PDP-Rivers). In moving the motion titled “Need to Stop Further Misuse of FIFA and CAF Grants by the Nigerian Football Federation,” Adesola stressed that the alleged diversion of development funds has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s diminishing performance in international football competitions.
Adesola also pointed to an audit query issued by FIFA in December 2016, which raised concerns over a US $1.1 million development grant to the NFF — noting that “US$802,000 lacked proper documentation.” He added: “One of such grants, US$1.2 million, which the NFF claimed was used to construct the Birnin Kebbi Stadium, is currently trending on social media. But a physical inspection of the facility revealed it to be substandard and not commensurate with the amount reportedly expended.”
Drawing a comparison with Kenya, he remarked: “The Kenyan Football Federation used the same amount of grant to develop a standard and well-equipped facility,” raising further questions over Nigeria’s allocation and oversight of the funds.
Following deliberations presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the House resolved that the existing Committee on Sports will conduct the investigation. The NFF leadership—past and present—will be required to appear before the committee with full documentation of all grants received and expenditures related thereto.
