NFF Reshuffles Leadership as Abdulrahaman Takes NPFL Helm

The Nigeria Football Federation has installed Dr Ayo Abdulrahaman in the position of Chief Operating Officer for the Nigeria Premier Football League, with the appointment taking immediate effect. The new season commenced over the weekend, with Friday marking both the announcement of this appointment and the opening match featuring Shooting Stars against newly promoted Inter Lagos FC at Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan.

This move reflects broader restructuring initiatives underway at federation level. A wave of resignations among top NFF leadership triggered these organizational changes.

On Thursday, departures included President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi, and several members of the Executive Committee, creating substantial vacancies in governance. The National Sports Commission responded promptly by designating Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme—previously serving as Deputy General Secretary—as interim General Secretary.

Elevation to interim Deputy General Secretary went to Dr Ademola Olajire, whose prior role was Director of Media and Communications. Abdulrahaman's credentials strengthen the federation's case for his selection.

He possesses a doctorate degree in sports administration and has accumulated extensive experience overseeing football governance structures and league management across various entities. Federation officials characterized this appointment as essential for stabilizing NPFL operations throughout the current transitional period.

These leadership decisions coincided with the NPFL season's launch, underscoring the urgency with which football administration must ensure operational stability following institutional upheaval. The NSC's intervention became critical after senior departures threatened to disrupt organizational functioning.

Published accounts have not specified what triggered the resignations.