Nigerian FA Chairmen Deny Crisis in Football Governance

State Football Association chairmen in Nigeria, represented by Gombe State FA Chairman Yakubu Sarma, have rejected claims of a crisis within Nigerian football. Following the resignation of former NFF President Ibrahim Gusau and other board members, Sarma stated that the NFF Congress is fully capable of addressing the leadership vacuum without external takeover.

Speaking after a meeting with FIFA and CAF officials in Abuja, Sarma emphasized that domestic football operations are ongoing, with leagues active, clubs participating in continental matches, and international fixtures being played. He noted that the NFF Secretariat continues to function effectively.

Sarma acknowledged the leadership vacancy but insisted that existing NFF, FIFA, and CAF statutes provide mechanisms for internal resolution. He clarified that the Congress is not against the reform agenda from the National Sports Commission, having already incorporated about 67% of the proposed reforms.

The disagreement lies in the preference for a Congress-appointed caretaker committee over a FIFA-appointed Normalisation Committee.