The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have reportedly commenced investigations into the utilisation of a ₦12 billion intervention fund released to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
The funds were reportedly provided by the Federal Government to settle outstanding players’ wages, bonuses and other financial obligations involving Nigeria’s national teams.
The development comes amid increased scrutiny of the NFF’s management of public funds allocated to Nigerian football.
According to reports on Thursday, the NFF confirmed the ongoing investigation in a letter dated August 18, stating that documents relating to the intervention fund are currently in the possession of the EFCC and ICPC.
The federation reportedly indicated that the relevant records had been submitted to the two anti-corruption agencies as part of their inquiries into the utilisation of the funds.
The investigations are expected to examine how the ₦12 billion was received, disbursed and applied to the purposes for which it was released.
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The development could further intensify calls for greater transparency and accountability in the administration of Nigerian football, particularly regarding government funding for the national teams.
Neither the EFCC nor the ICPC has publicly disclosed details of the scope or findings of the investigation at the time of filing this report.
The probe also comes against the backdrop of longstanding concerns over unpaid allowances, bonuses and other financial obligations involving Nigeria’s national team players and officials.
Further details are expected as the anti-corruption agencies continue their investigation into the management of the intervention fund.